Archive · 27 Jan 2026
Alexander Zverev's Battle with Diabetes
Alexander Zverev is a top tennis player who has been managing type 1 diabetes since he was four years old.
He describes his condition as a second match happening at the same time as his tennis games.
Zverev uses an insulin pump to regulate his glucose levels, but he can't wear it during matches.
He has to make small, careful decisions during games to manage his diabetes, like when to take a sip of water or have an energy gel.
Despite his condition, he has won many important titles and is still aiming for a Grand Slam victory.
Zverev also uses routines and preparation to keep his diabetes and tennis performance in check.
He has faced personal challenges off the court but remains focused on his career.
Alexander Zverev has managed type 1 diabetes since age four.
He describes his condition as a second match happening simultaneously with his tennis games.
Zverev uses a Medtronic insulin pump to regulate glucose levels, but not during matches.
He makes small, strategic decisions during games to manage his diabetes.
Despite his condition, he has won an Olympic gold medal, two ATP Finals titles, and reached three Grand Slam finals.
- Who
- Alexander Zverev, a professional tennis player
- What
- Managing type 1 diabetes while competing in tennis
- When
- Diagnosed at age four, currently 28
- Where
- On tennis courts and in daily life
- Why
- To maintain performance and health while managing diabetes
- Age at Diagnosis
- 4 years old
- Current Age
- 28 years old
- World Ranking
- 3
- Medical Device
- Medtronic insulin pump
- Recent Match
- Fourth round against Francisco Cerundolo
- Next Match
- Learner Tien for a place in the semi-finals
- Career Highlights
- Olympic gold medal, two ATP Finals titles, three Grand Slam finals