Alexander Zverev's French Open title win remains one of the biggest talking points in tennis. While many fans celebrated the German star's first Grand Slam trophy, others continued debating the controversy surrounding him due to past allegations made by former partners, which he has denied. Days after lifting the trophy at Roland Garros, Zverev spoke about the people who privately reached out to congratulate him. However, one famous name was missing from his list, and tennis fans quickly noticed it.
The German defeated Flavio Cobolli in a dramatic five-set French Open final, winning 6-1, 4-6, 6-4, 6-7(5), 6-1 on Court Philippe-Chatrier. Since then, congratulations have continued to pour in from across the sports world. But when Zverev recently revealed who contacted him personally after the victory, fans focused on the absence of Roger Federer and shared their reactions online.
Alexander Zverev names Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal among private well-wishers
Speaking to TNT Sports, Alexander Zverev explained that personal messages meant more to him than public posts. He revealed that several of the biggest names in tennis reached out after his French Open triumph. “For me private messages mean much more. Every top tennis player congratulated me: Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic. Rafa [Nadal] wrote me an exceptionally long message - I found that incredibly kind,” Alexander Zverev said. The German also received support from stars outside tennis. He mentioned German football players Thomas Müller, Mats Hummels and Joshua Kimmich. Zverev added that basketball legend Dirk Nowitzki was following the final closely and even sent him a message while the match was still being played. “Athletes from other sports as well: Thomas Müller, Mats Hummels, Joshua Kimmich. Dirk Nowitzki was following the match closely and even texted me during it. That really meant a lot to me,” he added.
Roger Federer absence sparks fan reaction as Alexander Zverev reflects on Roland Garros journey
After hearing Zverev's list, many fans pointed out that Roger Federer was not mentioned. Some users joked about the Swiss legend's absence, while others praised him. “Roger Federer climbing back up my rankings again,” one fan wrote on X. “It's insane that Federer does know how to show class by NOT doing things too,” another user commented.
Meanwhile, Zverev also reflected on the difficult moments he experienced before finally winning a Grand Slam title. He remembered his serious ankle injury against Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros in 2022 and his painful French Open final loss to Carlos Alcaraz in 2024. “This court is so special to me in so many ways. I have had the best moments and the worst moment of my life on this court,” Zverev said.
Fans continue to debate Zverev's legacy, with some focusing on his on-court achievements and others on off-court controversies. The absence of Federer from his list of well-wishers has added another layer to the ongoing discussion. As Zverev prepares for the upcoming grass-court season, the tennis world will be watching closely to see if he can build on his Roland Garros success.
