Since the beginning of the 2024 tennis season, Alexander Zverev has created a narrative of triumphs and accomplishments that underscore his enduring prowess. But did you know that getting into tennis was not an easy thing for him? As he manages his health with his game, a story behind him carrying insulins captures the world’s attention.

Beyond the exhilarating rallies and match points, there lies a lesser-known side of Alexander Zverev’s tennis journey. Growing up with parents who were avid tennis players, he has always had a natural talent for the game. However, as he plays, he also has to fight against a serious disadvantage.

Why does Alexander Zverev use continuous insulin?

The former world number 2 is not a new face in the tennis world. The 26-year-old American tennis player suffers from type 1 diabetes. He has been challenging this chronic condition since he was 3 and has bravely shrugged off every challenge that came his way of becoming a professional tennis player.

Since being diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 3, he has been using insulin to regulate his blood sugar levels from time to time. Even today, he takes in insulin during matches because of his diabetic condition, and to maintain proper health as a player.

The world number six disclosed his diabetes diagnosis in public in 2022. In addition, he came under fire in 2019, when he appeared to be examined for a gadget in his bag during a game, raising the possibility of breaching game regulations that prohibit using a phone or other electronic device. Later on, though, it was discovered that the gadget was actually a glucose monitor.

Furthermore, the German tennis player is exempt from WADA’s usual blood sugar regulations when using insulin, thanks to a specific dispensation granted by the International Tennis Integrity Agencies.

The tennis journey of Alexander Zverev: from rejection to triumph 

Last year, in an interview with Australia’s Channel Nine, Zverev opened up about his feelings when he was first diagnosed. He detailed how his parents were quite worried for him as the doctor said that their “kid is very limited.” But he knew what he wanted to do, and he made his conditions very clear: he wanted to play tennis, and nothing could stop him.

He added, “Some of them said, ‘No, you have to stop … there is no way you can be a professional athlete with this kind of illness. There is no way you can play such a hard physical sport.’” He further detailed how, even though his own health made him upset, he never limited himself as a kid and won hearts and matches on the court.

Nevertheless, what are your thoughts on Alexander Zverev’s diabetic history? Do share your views in the comment section below.

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