‘It’s very serious’ – Zverev reveals more about ankle injury

After horrible scenes on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Friday, Alexander Zverev did not have good news for fans

Germany’s Alexander Zverev with Spain’s Rafael Nadal as he retires from the match after sustaining an injury (AI/Reuters/Panoramic)

Carrie Dunn

June 4, 2022

It seemed clear from his reaction on the court, but Alexander Zverev has now confirmed that he has sustained a “very serious” injury.

In an Instagram video, the German said, “I have a very serious injury. The medical team and the doctors are still checking on it and we’ll keep you updated.”

The 25-year-old rolled his ankle towards the end of the second set in his semi-final against Rafael Nadal, and fell to the ground in evident pain, screaming and crying. After immediate medical attention, he was helped to his feet and encouraged to put weight on the damaged ankle as he left the court for more treatment. He returned to court on crutches to officially retire from the match and to shake hands with the umpire.

Nadal: Hopefully it isn’t a break

Zverev did not take part in a formal press conference after the match, and Nadal – who followed him off the court when he went for treatment – refused to be drawn any further on the nature of the injury when questioned, although he did suggest that the medical staff were scanning the ankle for evidence of any break or fracture.

“Well, if he wants to say he gonna say later, no?” Nadal responded to a question. “I was with him, yes, and he was checking there in the echography, ultrasound. He was checking the thing. I was just there to see how the things are evolving. I am not the one who says anything. If he wants to say, going to be him, it’s his decision. I can’t talk for him.”

He also said: “I hope he’s not too bad. Hopefully it’s just the normal thing when you turn your ankle, and hopefully is nothing breaked.”