Alexander Zverev made headlines during the men’s Wimbledon final against Jannik Sinner when he was seen taking an injection to manage his diabetes. After winning the first set 7-6 and leading the second set 3-2, Zverev paused to inject insulin from a pen into his leg, a crucial step in controlling his glucose levels during the match.

Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at just four years old, Zverev uses a phone on the court to monitor his glucose levels, thanks to a medical exemption that allows him to bypass the usual ban on devices. In a pre-match interview with BBC Sport, he explained, “that’s why the umpires allow me to check my phone, so I don’t have to poke my finger every changeover.”

Tennis Grand Slam tournaments have recognized the needs of diabetic players, permitting them to use phones for monitoring their health. During the final, commentators Andre Agassi and Andrew Castle highlighted Zverev’s determination and resilience, with Agassi noting, “As if there’s not enough to worry about out there in a grand slam final.”

Despite his careful management, Zverev faced challenges in the past. At the Halle Open in June, a malfunctioning glucose sensor led to him injecting too much insulin, resulting in a loss against Taylor Fritz. He shared, "I had huge problems with the sugar because the sensor I use gave me a completely incorrect reading."

Zverev’s journey underscores the complexities of competing at the highest level while managing a chronic condition, showcasing both his athletic prowess and personal strength.