In a Madrid Open final that promised fireworks, Jannik Sinner delivered a masterclass, dismantling Alexander Zverev 6-1, 6-2 to claim the title. The world number one was in imperious form, leaving Zverev with little room to breathe and extending his winning streak against the German to eight consecutive matches.

But it wasn't just the scoreline that caught attention—it was Zverev's approach, or lack thereof, that drew sharp criticism from Brad Gilbert, the former coach of Coco Gauff. Speaking on 'The Big T Podcast,' Gilbert didn't hold back, pointing to a crucial flaw in Zverev's game plan.

"What Sinner does so well is hit the ball big to safe targets," Gilbert explained. "Normally, Zverev can make progress backhand to backhand. But he can't do that here, and the forehand-to-forehand exchange is a problem."

What truly disappointed Gilbert, however, was Zverev's inability to adapt. "My coach told me in 1980: if you lose the first set 6-1, don't lose the second set 6-1 playing the same way. I don't care what you do—serve and volley, moonball, bust a racket. Be unpredictable. Zverev was extremely predictable from the first ball. He didn't change plan A from the first set to the second."

Gilbert suggested specific adjustments Zverev could have made: "He should have served and volleyed, taken a backhand return and come in, or shown some emotion. Instead, he just hoped not to get beaten badly."

This loss highlights a growing concern for Zverev. Despite a stellar 2026 season—reaching at least the semifinals in six of seven tournaments—the German remains titleless this year, with Siner consistently standing in his way. His form keeps him comfortably inside the top five, but with Sinner's dominance over him, the path to world number one or a Grand Slam title looks increasingly steep. For tennis fans and apparel enthusiasts alike, Zverev's next move will be one to watch.