Struggling Zverev Admits World No. 1 Hopes Are Fading. 

Alexander Zverev’s hopes of reaching the top of the rankings have taken a serious hit after a shocking early exit at Indian Wells. The world number two, who was the top seed in the tournament, fell to Tallon Griekspoor in his opening match, marking yet another disappointing result in his recent slump.

Following his runner-up finish to Jannik Sinner at the Australian Open, Zverev initially saw an opportunity to claim the number one spot while Sinner serves a three-month suspension. But after early exits in Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, and Acapulco, his confidence has taken a dive.

“Now it’s less, because I’m just playing terrible,” Zverev admitted. “To be world number one, you have to win tournaments. Right now, I’m barely getting past the first or second round.”

His latest defeat was particularly painful. After taking the first set against Griekspoor, Zverev fought back from 2-5 down in the second to lead 6-5, only to get broken while serving for th