Alexander Zverev won the US Open and, just minutes later, used the biggest moment of his career to speak about type 1 diabetes and the woman who, he said, never allowed the diagnosis to define his future: his mother.

The German tennis player defeated American Ben Shelton in the 2026 US Open final 6-3, 7-6(2), 5-7, 6-2,1 claiming the title in New York for the first time. It was Zverev’s second Grand Slam title of the year, following his victory at Roland Garros.

However, one of the most emotional moments of the evening came after the match.

Zverev spoke publicly about being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just four years old and, in particular, about the role his mother, Irina, played in shaping the path he would go on to follow.

As Zverev recalled, when he was diagnosed, his family was told that the condition could significantly limit his life and his ability to participate in sports. According to Zverev, his mother responded differently. If her son wanted to become a tennis player, then he would become a tennis player.

“This disease will not define us,” Zverev recalled, describing his mother as the most important and strongest person he knows.

His story, however, does not mean that type 1 diabetes can be overcome through willpower. It is a chronic condition that requires careful, daily management. What his experience does show is that, with appropriate treatment and medical follow-up, a person living with type 1 diabetes can lead an active life — and even compete at the highest level of professional sport.

What Is Type 1 Diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. The immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreas’s insulin-producing beta cells. As a result, the body produces little or no insulin — the hormone that allows glucose in the bloodstream to enter cells and be used for energy.

For this reason, people with type 1 diabetes need insulin every day and must regularly monitor their blood glucose levels.

Contrary to a common misconception, type 1 diabetes is not caused by eating sugar, diet, or lifestyle choices. It most commonly develops in children and young adults, but it can be diagnosed at any age.2

Sources

[1] US Open — Alexander Zverev defeats Ben Shelton to win the 2026 US Open

[2] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) — Type 1 Diabetes