Zverev courts Rafa magic, gets midnight pep talks

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

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

Zverev confirmed on Sunday in Toronto that he had sought advice — and possibly a new coach — as he travelled to Mallorca this month 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.