French Open: Alexander Zverev Travels from Hamburg with His Grandmother for Heartbreaking Reason

Alexander Zverev is receiving special support from his family at the French Open, with his grandmother Natalia now part of his team. Her presence is tied to a personal loss: Zverev said his grandfather died some time ago, and the family later brought Natalia to Europe. At first, there were difficulties obtaining a visa because she still holds a Russian passport, but that issue has now been resolved.

Since then, Natalia has been traveling with Zverev’s team to tournaments in Monte-Carlo, Munich, Rome, and Paris. Zverev said she is enjoying life again, spending time with her children and great-grandchildren, and that she has little to do back home in Sochi. At his matches, she sits in the player box, watches closely, applauds, and sometimes pumps her fist in support.

Zverev’s inner circle also includes his brother Mischa Zverev, who works as his manager and tactical adviser. Mischa remains an important point of contact for the 2021 Olympic champion, alongside other members of the team.

The article comes as Zverev continues his run at Roland Garros. The world No. 3 is scheduled to face 20-year-old Czech player Jakub Mensik in the semifinal on Friday. With Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic eliminated early and Carlos Alcaraz absent because of injury, Zverev is seen as the leading favorite to win the tournament.

If he succeeds, it would be Zverev’s first Grand Slam title. The support from his grandmother has added a personal and emotional element to his campaign in Paris, underscoring how family has become an important part of his push for one of tennis’s biggest prizes.