Alexander Zverev’s herculean effort to win his first Grand Slam at the 2026 French Open was recognized by multiple legends of the sport, including Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz. His peers declared him the “most deserving” winner of the title this year, considering the years he spent chasing his maiden Major.
Novak Djokovic was a bit late to the party, but he wrote an elaborate message to his colleague on Monday, recognizing the hurdles he overcame to get his hands on the trophy.
Novak Djokovic Reminisces on His Bond With Alexander Zverev
After three unsuccessful attempts in Grand Slam finals, Zverev ultimately clinched his first such title at the French Open, which has historically been his most successful Slam. The German was the favorite to win the trophy after Djokovic and Jannik Sinner’s early departures and Alcaraz’s absence. While other contenders failed to capitalize on the opportunity, Zverev stayed the course, beating Flavio Cobolli 6-1, 4-6, 6-4, 6-7(5), 6-1 during Sunday’s showdown.
Djokovic recalled that his youngest brother, Djordje, used to train with Zverev during junior years. Meanwhile, Zverev’s older brother, Mischa, was a rival of the 24-time Major winner.
“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 circuits. I’ve nurtured a respectful and friendly relationship with your entire family for many years,” Djokovic said in his Instagram message.
He remembered how both families bonded over life and career. “We had countless conversations on tennis tactics, strategic plays, life, family, business. We had fun time on and off the court.”
After multiple failed attempts, Zverev’s potential to win on the biggest stages was questioned, and he was famously listed among the best players who had not won a Grand Slam. Djokovic appreciated the German’s efforts in silencing the doubters while also coping with Type 1 diabetes throughout his life.
“Knowing what you had to endure with your illness since a 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, who was in Zverev’s half of the draw, was chasing a record 25th Grand Slam in Paris. After Sinner’s unexpected second-round exit, all eyes were on the Serb to create history, but he was beaten in the third round by rising teen star, João Fonseca. Despite the heartbreak, the Serb admitted that he was emotional watching Zverev lift the trophy in front of his loved ones.
“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. Enjoy it and well done, brother,” he wrote.
MORE: Alexander Zverev’s Family, Team, Daughter, Girlfriend, Diabetes Struggle, and More
This was Zverev’s second French Open final. In 2024, he squandered a two-sets-to-one lead against eventual champion Alcaraz. The 29-year-old also featured in the 2020 US Open final against Dominic Thiem and the 2025 Australian Open final against Jannik Sinner.
