Alexander Zverev opens up about battle with diabetes and starts his own foundation

Sunday, 07 August 2022 at 07:30

Updated at Monday, 27 January 2025 at 10:19

byErik Virostko

Alexander Zverev opened up about his struggles with Type 1 diabetes, which began when he was four years old.

Zverev has never openly talked about his battle with diabetes, but he has not opened up about his fight with the condition. He also announced the launch of his own Alexander Zverev Foundation.

Recently, the German player underwent surgery after suffering numerous ligament rips at Roland Garros. But he doesn't focus only on what's happening on the tennis courts, but also away from them.

Now that he is a successful athlete and an adult, he understands that there are people like him who might need some inspiration and motivation. That was not always the case.

Opening up about his condition, Zverev admitted that he wants to show others who suffer from the same condition as him that it's still possible to succeed.

"As a little boy I didn't think about it much, later more and more. I want to show that you can make it far with this disease. Now, many years later and also with the success behind me, I feel comfortable and confident enough to go public with this initiative. I want to support children who can still avoid getting diabetes with an active life and the right prevention."

"I'm in the privileged situation of leading a life that I've always wanted to lead. I always wanted to play tennis, travel to tournaments around the world and be one of the best tennis players in the world. I owe everything to my parents and my brother, who have always supported me unconditionally on my way there and still do today."

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Zverev also announced the launch of his foundation. He aims to help those who have diabetes like he does. On top of that, the German player also wants to help with the distribution of insulin, which is crucial for those battling diabetes.

"The 6th of August 2022 is a very special day for my family and I. Today, the Alexander Zverev Foundation has officially come to life, supporting children with type 1 diabetes and helping people prevent type 2 diabetes by living a healthy and active life."

"Our mission is to provide insulin and life saving medicine to children in developing countries and those in need. And as a type 1 diabetic myself, I want to encourage children with diabetes to never give up on their dreams no matter what others might say to you."