Alexander Zverev, the top seed at the ATP Toronto Masters, is looking to revitalize his tennis performance with guidance from a former rival, Rafael Nadal. Zverev, currently ranked world number three, seeks to improve his confidence after an unexpected first-round defeat at Wimbledon a month ago.

Zverev visited Nadal's training academy in Mallorca, seeking advice and possibly a new coach. While he didn't manage to recruit Nadal's uncle, Toni Nadal, as his coach, he had extensive discussions with Rafael Nadal, who retired last season. Zverev emphasized the value of Toni Nadal's potential to instill confidence, noting that "when he speaks and when Rafa speaks, you listen".

Nadal provided Zverev with unique insights into his game, offering a perspective from both playing against him and observing him as a spectator. Zverev found these conversations very helpful, mentioning they spent hours discussing strategies, sometimes late into the night.

Zverev, who won the title in Canada back in 2017, traditionally has been coached by his father. After his 10-day visit to Spain, he is still trying to persuade Toni Nadal to join his coaching team for more weeks. He acknowledged Toni Nadal's busy schedule but expressed hope for a potential partnership in the future. A clearer picture of their collaboration is expected in the coming weeks. Toni Nadal has previously coached Canadian player Felix Auger-Aliassime, after a long career guiding his nephew Rafael.

The National Bank Open in Toronto is a significant event on the ATP tour. This year's tournament features a star-studded lineup, including Zverev, Andrey Rublev, Daniil Medvedev, Ben Shelton, Taylor Fritz, and others. However, some notable players like Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Novak Djokovic will not be participating.

Zverev is aiming for his eighth ATP Masters 1000 title and his first since Paris last year. He is hoping to bounce back from his early exit at Wimbledon. Other players to watch include Taylor Fritz, who is in good form after winning the title in Eastbourne and reaching the semi-finals at Wimbledon. Home hopes are pinned on Felix Auger-Aliassime and Denis Shapovalov, both of whom have won two tour-level titles this season.

Daniil Medvedev, who won the title in Toronto in 2021, is also a strong contender. He is seeking his first trophy since Rome in 2023. Past winners of the event include big names like Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray, highlighting the prestige of the tournament.