Alexander Zverev is standing just one match away from the biggest achievement of his career. The German star has reached the 2026 French Open final, earning another opportunity to finally lift his first Grand Slam trophy. While many fans are focused on the championship match, attention has also turned to a familiar face who has not been seen in Paris this year: his girlfriend, Sophia Thomalla.
Zverev's Path to the Final
The World No. 3 booked his place in the Roland Garros final after defeating Jakub Mensik in the semifinals. He was set to face Italy’s Flavio Cobolli, who advanced after Matteo Arnaldi withdrew from their semifinal due to illness. This marks Zverev's fourth Grand Slam final appearance, having previously lost at the 2020 US Open, the 2024 French Open, and the 2025 Australian Open.
Sophia Thomalla's Absence
Reports from Germany suggest that Sophia Thomalla will not be present in Zverev’s player box for the final, despite the importance of the occasion. Thomalla has not attended the French Open during this year’s tournament. According to reports, the television presenter has been busy with work commitments and was recently in Thailand filming a television project. She has explained her approach in the past, stating: “I would never show up during a Grand Slam.” Reports indicate that Thomalla planned to watch the final from Cologne. If Zverev wins the title, she is expected to immediately travel to Paris to celebrate the historic moment with him before returning to Germany shortly afterward.
Strong Support System
While Thomalla has been away, Zverev has still had strong support in Paris. His father and coach, Alexander Zverev Sr., his brother Mischa Zverev, close friend Marcelo Melo, and his grandmother Natalia have all been part of his support team during the tournament. His mother has previously said she finds it too stressful to watch his matches live.
Light-Hearted Moment
Zverev also created a light-hearted moment after reaching the final. Following his semifinal victory over Jakub Mensik, he joked about his father during an on-court interview: “My coach hasn’t told me anything in 25 years. I wish he would tell me something sometimes.” The crowd laughed at the remark, but Zverev was not finished. “No, I lost so many matches in my life and he still hasn’t said anything. So it doesn’t change.” The comments showed the relaxed mood around the German star before one of the biggest matches of his career.
