Alexander Zverev has finally captured his first Grand Slam title at the French Open, saying the breakthrough could open the door to more major victories after years of near misses on the biggest stage.
The German star defeated Flavio Cobolli 6-1, 4-6, 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-1 in a dramatic five-set final at Roland Garros, ending a long wait for a major title after previous final defeats at the US Open in 2020, the French Open in 2024, and the Australian Open in 2025.
Zverev, who has often been labelled one of the strongest players never to win a Grand Slam, joked after the match that he did not care how people now view him, as the trophy ensures his place in tennis history. He said simply being a Grand Slam champion changes everything for his confidence and legacy.
The Tokyo Olympics gold medallist admitted he was extremely nervous during the final and struggled with tension on court, describing it as “mental cramps.” However, he said those struggles eventually helped him loosen up and play more freely in the deciding set.
Zverev added that lifting the Coupe des Mousquetaires has eased the mental pressure he previously carried in major finals, giving him more belief and freedom heading into future tournaments.
Despite his emotional breakthrough, he acknowledged that expectations affected him during the match, especially with top rivals like Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic already out of the tournament earlier in the competition.
