PICTURES: Rafael Nadal’s sister Maribel all smiles after meeting Alexander Zverev during German’s unexpected training stint at Mallorca academy

Rafael Nadal’s sister Maribel recently watched and met Alexander Zverev at her legendary brother’s famed tennis academy as the German practiced under the watchful eye of the siblings’ uncle, Toni. Zverev, the ATP No. 3, has cut a dejected figure on more than one occasion in recent months and has now turned to the 22-time Major champion’s iconic uncle for solutions.

Ad

On Thursday, July 17, Maribel took to her Instagram and posted a video and a picture. The video featured 24-time career singles titlist Zverev hitting forehands on one of the courts at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, with Toni Nadal supervising the practice session.

Ad

Trending

Despite raging rumors, both Zverev and Toni have been tight-lipped about the nature of their collaboration so far. However, the German had hinted at "possibly" seeking the advice of a new coach after his disastrous outing at the 2025 Wimbledon Championships.

"Empty" Alexander Zverev spoke up about 'possibility' of adding new coach to team after Wimbledon shocker

Zverev enjoyed a promising buildup to the 2025 Wimbledon Championships, with the German finishing the Boss Open in Stuttgart as the runner-up and then reaching the last four of the Terra Wortmann Open in Halle. However, at SW19, his campaign was put to the sword in the first round itself, as Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech registered one of the upsets of the grass Major.

Later, at a post-match press conference, Zverev shed light on his concerning mental state, saying:

"I've never felt this empty before. Just lacking joy, just lacking joy in everything that I do. It's not necessarily about tennis. Just lacking joy outside of tennis, as well."

The ATP No. 3 also suggested that he might seek a fresh perspective to put an end to his on-court woes, which have led to several underwhelming results for him so far this year. The German said:

"Possibly (on the potential addition of a new coach). As I said, it's a different feeling right now for me. I can't speak for the moment. But I think I'll have answers by Canada (2025 Canadian Open)."

Zverev has worked with the likes of Juan Carlos Ferrero (Carlos Alcaraz's current coach) and Ivan Lendl in the past, his father, Zverev Sr., has remained his primary coach.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback

About the author

Sudipto Pati

Sudipto is a Tennis journalist at Sportskeeda holding a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. He has an experience of 3+ years across the market research, travel, health, lifestyle and sports sectors.

Sudipto has followed Tennis since the early 2000s and stays up-to-date with the sport by following both active and former Tennis players, and seasoned journalists. He also follows ATP and WTA updates, watches documentaries and interviews of professionals, and only reads esteemed publications. He sources all information for his articles only from credible publications stays away from unsubstantiated claims. In just a matter of 3 months, he has gained a readership of almost 2 million at Sportskeeda!

Sudipto admires Rafael Nadal for his fiercely competitive on-court nature and his ability to make memorable comebacks after injury layoffs. The Spaniard may be the GOAT for him, but he also respects the accomplishments of Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.

Beyond Tennis, Sudipto also has an interest in music, football, and video games alongside cooking and traveling.

Know More