German tennis star Alexander Zverev has made a surprise return to the national Davis Cup squad, leading the team into the second qualifying round against Croatia scheduled for September 19 and 20 in Halle, Westphalia, according to announcements from the German Tennis Federation. Team captain Michael Kohlmann selected the world number three for the home tie, where a victory would secure Germany a spot in the final eight-team tournament in Bologna, Italy.
The Path to Halle and the US Open Context
Zverev’s inclusion arrives as a surprise given the demanding schedule surrounding the US Open. As a top contender at the upcoming Grand Slam tournament in New York, where the men’s singles final is slated for September 13, the French Open champion faces a tight turnaround before traveling to western Germany. According to the German Tennis Federation, Kohlmann expressed delight at having the star player back in the squad following his standout successes this season. Zverev emphasized the competitive weight of the upcoming tie, noting that the team must prepare to battle a formidable opponent.
Breaking a Three-Year Home Drought
For Zverev, the upcoming fixture marks his first Davis Cup appearance in front of a home crowd in over three years. During the earlier stages of the current competition, the German team successfully managed without the world number three against outsider Peru. Although Zverev featured in the squad for the 2025 finals phase, Germany ultimately bowed out in the semi-finals against Spain. His last home appearance in the team competition took place in 2023, when the German side suffered a defeat against Switzerland in Trier.
Squad Composition and Missing Veterans
Alongside Zverev, captain Kohlmann named Yannick Hanfmann as well as the doubles specialists Kevin Krawietz and Tim Pütz to the roster. Kohlmann left one spot in the lineup open for the time being. Meanwhile, Davis Cup veteran and Wimbledon quarter-finalist Jan-Lennard Struff was left off the initial nomination list.
What Comes Next
The German squad will assemble in Halle, Westphalia, ahead of the opening matches on September 19, following the conclusion of the US Open in New York. Fans can follow official updates via the German Tennis Federation’s communications channels.
