# Alexander Zverev Reflects on World Number One Ranking and Career Challenges The German tennis star discusses his health journey, family influence, and upcoming tournament goals. - **Source:** [La Gazzetta dello Sport – Ultime](https://www.gazzetta.it) - **Published:** 2026-11-09 - **Topic:** [sports](https://brifing.si/c/sports) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/f31f4aeb-809c-4feb-929b-9bdeba098f6e ## Reaching the Top Ranking Alexander Zverev recently achieved the world number one ranking, becoming the 30th player in ATP history to hold the position. While he acknowledges the honor, he emphasizes that his consistency throughout the season was the primary driver. He views this achievement as a testament to overcoming significant past performance fluctuations. ## Early Health Challenges Zverev identifies November 2, 2001, as a pivotal date, when he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age four. Despite the medical prognosis at the time, his mother, Irina, encouraged his athletic ambitions. This early experience shaped his resilience and perspective on managing his physical health throughout his career. ## Maternal Coaching Influence The German star credits his mother, Irina, for his signature two-handed backhand technique. She served as his first coach in Hamburg, teaching him the fundamentals of the game. Zverev maintains that her belief in his potential allowed him to pursue professional tennis despite the challenges posed by his chronic condition. ## Family and Professional Stability Zverev continues to work with his father, Alexander senior, as his primary coach. He rejected suggestions to change his coaching staff during difficult periods, citing the importance of long-term trust. This partnership culminated in his recent success, proving that their collaborative training methods were effective despite external criticism from observers. ## Overcoming Severe Injury In 2022, Zverev suffered a catastrophic ankle injury at the Roland Garros tournament, tearing three ligaments and breaking two bones. He spent months in rehabilitation, facing doubts about his future at age 25. His return to the court required intense physical conditioning to endure the sport's demanding eleven-month annual circuit. ## Perspective on Rivalries Addressing the struggles of rivals Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, Zverev remains focused on his own performance. He dismisses claims that his recent Grand Slam victories were diminished by their absences or health issues. He emphasizes that he can only compete against the opponents present on the other side of the net. ## Future Career Ambitions Looking ahead, Zverev expresses a desire to continue playing professional tennis for another two decades. He acknowledges the physical toll of the sport but remains committed to his training regimen. Once his professional career concludes, he plans to transition into playing padel, maintaining his lifelong connection to racket sports. ## Focus on Upcoming Finals As the top seed, Zverev is now preparing for the ATP Finals in Torino. He views the tournament as a critical opportunity to demonstrate his current form. Despite his status as a favorite, he insists he has nothing left to prove, focusing instead on maintaining his high level of competitive play. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.gazzetta.it/Tennis/ATP/09-11-2026/zverev-diabete-mamma-sinner-alcaraz.shtml — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._