Zverev undergoes surgery on ankle after ligament tears

Zverev will rise to No 2 in the world for the first time next week but could be out for a few months at the least after his latest surgery

Men’s semi-final between Rafael Nadal and Alexander Zverev at Roland-Garros Image Credit: Aurelien Morissard / Panoramic

Haresh Ramchandani

June 8, 2022

Germany’s Alexander Zverev underwent surgery on the ankle he rolled over during the semi-finals against Rafael Nadal at Roland-Garros in Paris last week.

Zverev had lost the first set 7-6 to Nadal and was trailing the Spaniard late in the second set of their semi-final clash when he rolled over his ankle, fell to the ground in pain and had to be wheeled off the court. The German returned to Court Philippe Chatrier on crutches to shake the chair umpire’s hand and wave goodbye to the crowds.

On Tuesday, Zverev, who will rise to a new career-peak of No 2 in the rankings next week, posted an update on social media announcing he underwent surgery and that he will start rehab to return as soon as possible.

“We all have our own journey in life. This is part of mine,” the 25-year-old wrote. “Next week I’ll reach a career high ranking of No. 2 in the world, but this morning I had to undergo surgery. After further examination in Germany, we received confirmation that all three of the lateral ligaments in my right ankle were torn. To return to competition as quickly as possible, to ensure all the ligaments heal properly, and to reclaim full stability in my ankle, surgery was the best choice.

“My rehab starts now and I’ll do everything to come back stronger than ever! I am continuing to receive so many messages and would like to thank everyone once again for supporting me during such a difficult time.”

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A post shared by Alexander Zverev (@alexzverev123)

While Zverev did not specify a time table for his return, it looks almost certain that he will miss Wimbledon, which begins on June 27. It remains to be seen if the German will be back in time for the final Major of the season, the US Open in late August.

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