Top seed Zverev gets Nadal insights, tries to hire uncle-coach Toni

Alexander Zverev returns to tennis with his confidence under repair after losing in the Wimbledon first round a month ago.

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TORONTO -

And the world No. 3, playing as top seed at the ATP Toronto Masters, is bolstered by the unique insight from one-time rival Rafael Nadal.

Zverev confirmed on July 27 in Toronto that he had sought advice — and possibly a new coach — as he travelled to Mallorca in July to visit Nadal's training academy on the Spaniard's home island.

While apparently failing to sign Nadal's uncle Toni as his travelling coach, Zverev did have a chance to chat with Nadal, who retired last season.

"(Toni is) a great coach, no question about that, but he's a personality that I think can give you confidence as well," the German said.

"When he speaks and when Rafa speaks, you listen.