“People are giving him sh*t” – Jessica Pegula calls out Alexander Zverev critics over World No. 1 backlash

Jessica Pegula strongly defended Alexander Zverev on 'The Player's Box' podcast after critics minimized his achievement of securing the Year-End World No. 1 ranking. While Pegula acknowledged that long-term injuries to Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner helped open the door, she emphasized that Zverev earned the milestone by winning two Grand Slam titles and maintaining elite consistency throughout the grueling tennis season.

Co-host Madison Keys backed Pegula's stance, arguing that Grand Slam victories should not carry an asterisk based on opponents faced. Pegula emphasized that maintaining physical health and competing every week is vital to reaching the top of the sport. Currently, Zverev is competing at the Shanghai Masters, while Pegula prepares for the Wuhan Open.