Alexander Zverev’s Madrid Open rout ends in apology — Jannik Sinner seals a statement victory

Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images for Laver Cup

Alexander Zverev has fallen to Jannik Sinner once again, this time in the Madrid Open final.

This might have been the toughest one yet.

From the opening game, Sinner took control and never let go, breezing to a straight-sets win and adding another trophy to his growing collection.

After his 6-1, 6-2 loss, Zverev offered a short apology for his performance.

Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

Alexander Zverev reacts to one-sided defeat in Madrid Open final

“First of all, I am super sorry for the final,” he began, slumped as he gave his runners-up speech. “It was not my best day.”

He then turned his attention to his conqueror: “Of course, congratulations to Jannik. The best player in the world by far at the moment, and really no chance for most of the people for us against you at the moment.

“And also to your team. You guys do an incredible job every week. I hope one week, maybe even at the French Open, you have a break! But congratulations.”

Zverev also reserved brief praise for the Madrid Open crowd to whom he apologised, adding: “The crowd, it was almost a full stadium every single match I played. It was amazing to be in this beautiful arena in front of a beautiful crowd. I really enjoyed it. Thank you for this atmosphere.”

Sinner still had words of support for Zverev despite how dominant the match had been from start to finish.

How far is Alexander Zverev from winning a Grand Slam title?

At the start of 2026, Zverev had high hopes for his Grand Slam prospects.

He explained: “One of the main things among those that matter to me is to improve my game to win a Grand Slam; that is my main focus, my main goal. I feel that I am capable.”