Zverev Exits Wimbledon in First Round After Five-Set Thriller

It became no long Wimbledon tournament for world three Alexander Zverev. The German went out already in the first round.

» Published: July 01 2025

Zverev Exits Wimbledon in First Round After Five-Set Thriller
Photo: Kin Cheung/AP/TT

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Zverev lost the marathon match against the Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech after five dramatic sets – 7-6 (7-3), 6-7 (8-10), 6-3, 6-7 (5-7), 6-4.

Rinderknech is ranked as 72nd in the world.

It's my first win against a top five player, on the biggest stage in the world, in front of my family. I'm so happy to do it in front of them, it's a fantastic moment for me and for them, says Rinderknech after the upset.

The match began on Monday evening, but was interrupted when the clock started to get late. The meeting was resumed today, and lasted a total of 4 hours and 40 minutes.

My legs are shaking. I'm just so happy that the match is over. We started yesterday, I slept around 6 hours tonight. So yes, this sport is very difficult, but what a moment, what feelings, says Rinderknech.

A favorite who, on the other hand, withstood the pressure was world sixth Novak Djokovic. Even if it was not completely painless.

The Serb won against the Frenchman Alexandre Müller with 3–1 in sets, 6–1, 6–7 (7–9), 6–2, 6–2, in a match that took 3 hours and 20 minutes. Both players needed medical help during the game, but were able to complete the match.

To be honest, I went from my best in a set and a half, to my worst in 45 minutes. I have, if it's some kind of stomach flu or something, so I struggled with it and I lost energy. After the doctor's miracle pills, I managed to finish the match in a good way, says Djokovic after the match.

Also, world number one Jannik Sinner is moving on after winning in three straight sets against Luca Nardi.

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By TTEnglish edition by Sweden Herald, adapted for local and international readers
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