Wimbledon finalist Alexander Zverev is using his tennis success to raise diabetes awareness
Wimbledon finalist Alexander Zverev is using his platform to raise awareness for Type 1 diabetes, a condition he has managed since childhood. He discusses the challenges of monitoring glucose levels during high-stakes professional tennis matches.
Why it matters
Zverev's openness about his health condition helps destigmatize chronic illness in professional sports and provides visibility for diabetes management.
LONDON (AP) — Alexander Zverev has more than just defending champion Jannik Sinner to deal with on Sunday in the Wimbledon final.
The 29-year-old German also has Type 1 diabetes, which requires him to monitor his glucose levels and, if needed, inject insulin during matches.
Zverev, who won the French Open and is seeking back-to-back Grand Slam titles , uses an insulin pen when needed to jab the top of his thigh during changeovers on court.
Here's some more information about Zverev and the disease.
Zverev disclosed in 2022 that he has Type 1 diabetes, having been diagnosed at age 4, according to his diabetes foundation . He had previously kept it quiet. If he needed an insulin jab during a match, he'd do it privately during bathroom breaks.
The announcement coincided with him launching his foundation, to help children in particular.
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