Novak Djokovic Delivers Message to Alexander Zverev After French Open Title

Alexander Zverev defeated Flavio Cobolli 6-1, 4-6, 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-1 to win his first grand slam title after falling shot in the final in three previous attempts.

Following his French Open title victory, the 29-year-old received messages from some of the biggest names in the sport. Among them was 24-time grand slam champion Novak Djokovic, who took to social media with an emotional message for the German tennis player.

“Sasha, I have known you since you were 10 years old. You were battling on the practice courts with my youngest brother while I was competing against your older brother, Mischa, on the big stage in both junior and pro circuit,” he started. “I've nurtured a respectful and friendly relationship with your entire family for many years.”

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Djokovic recounted the “countless conversations” the two have had regarding tennis tactics as well as life, family and business. He then commented on Zverev’s diabetes diagnosis that saw the French Open champion giving himself a shot of insulin during the final against Cobolli.

“Knowing what you had to endure with your illness since the young age, overcoming the greatest mental hurdle within yourself and shutting down critics who thought you would never win GS, makes this Grand Slam win even more special and memorable,” Djokovic said.

“Seeing the tears of joy you had together with your parents, brother and other team members made me emotional. I'm happy that you made it and you absolutely deserve this success because you have worked so hard on every front to make it happen.”

Zverev just needs 23 more titles to tie Djoker.

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This story was originally published June 8, 2026 at 10:29 AM.