Zverev Reveals Achilles Scare: 'I Was Very Afraid' During Medical Timeout vs. Muller

Alexander Zverev Halts Match vs. Alexandre Müller Over Achilles Concern, Advances to Australian Open Third Round

© Photo by Daniel Pockett Getty Images via AFP

Arthur Millot

le 21/01/2026 à 15h43

2 min to read

Zverev Alexander

Alexander Zverev advanced to the second round of the 2026 Australian Open, but on Wednesday in Melbourne, the final score (6-3, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4) didn't tell the whole story.

During an intense match against Alexandre Müller, the German suddenly stopped play.

Zverev Stops, Crowd Worries

Everything was moving quickly and the pace was high. Then, after a routine point on his serve (at 2-1 in the 4th set), Alexander Zverev froze.

A few seconds later, he headed to the umpire, then the bench. The physiotherapists intervened, examining the sensitive area.

Finally, after a brief discussion with the medical team, Zverev resumed his position.

'I Was Very Afraid': Zverev Explains

In his on-court press conference, Zverev addressed the incident that worried his fans.

'I took a painkiller. And after that, I felt fine. I'm not the type to ask for many medical timeouts in the middle of matches, but it's true that I was a bit afraid at that moment.

What I felt was a slight discomfort in the Achilles tendon, precisely an injury that many teammates have suffered in the last two seasons.

Maybe that's why I was afraid. So I asked the physiotherapist to check the whole area and he told me everything was fine.

After the consultation, I felt very good, I moved as I wanted and I was able to play at the same level. I hope to be just as good tomorrow.'

Focus on Cameron Norrie

Reassuring in his words, Alexander Zverev now looks ahead to his next challenge: Britain's Cameron Norrie for a spot in the fourth round.