Boris Becker open to coaching return on ATP Tour, rules out working with Zverev again

Boris Becker has ruled out coaching Alexander Zverev again, but has suggested he could return to working on the ATP Tour with other players. Speaking to Der Spiegel, the former world number one said he had received "several inquiries" about coaching roles.

Becker rules out a reunion with Zverev

Asked whether he would ever consider coaching Zverev again, Becker gave a firm answer that referred to past friction. "I have to be the boss in the ring," he said. "If a family member then has a different opinion, in a language I don't understand, in this case Russian, then it's unacceptable."

Becker said he had been a constant presence for the German, attending many of his matches and working with him on the practice court. He acknowledged that the partnership had had its difficulties. "We've had our ups and downs," he said. "I'm 30 years older than him; I have children his age. You have to tell these young people what they don't like to hear sometimes."

Becker added that he saw value in challenging young players. "That might motivate them even more; they think, 'What's he talking about? I'll show that old guy.' That's okay. The main thing is that he wins. And he did this year."

Open to coaching again

Despite ruling out Zverev, Becker did not close the door on coaching elsewhere on the tour. Discussing a possible return, he said: "There have been several inquiries; of course I won't mention any names! Let's see what happens next year."

Zverev's 2026 season has been a significant one. He won Roland Garros and the US Open, and lost in the Wimbledon final between those two events. The results took him to world number one, although some have questioned the validity of that ranking. Becker had praised Zverev warmly after his first Grand Slam title in Paris earlier this year, so the comments suggest the relationship is still not fully settled.

Becker's comments also add his name to a short list of high-profile coaches who are currently available. David Ferrer, who has recently been linked with Carlos Alcaraz, is among those mentioned in the same context.