New Delhi: Alexander Zverev finally achieved the biggest milestone of his career by winning his first Grand Slam title. French Open. The German star defeated Flavio Cobolli 6-1, 4-6, 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-1 in a thrilling five-set final, ending a nearly years-long absence from tennis’ biggest stages. After sealing the victory, Zverev fell to the clay in tears, overcome by the moment after more than four hours of intense competition.His victory also drew praise from Indian cricket legends. Sachin Tendulkarwho wrote on X: “Sometimes it takes a long time for tennis players to get back what they put in. Great to see Alexandre Xavier win his first Grand Slam today at Roland-Garros. Always feels he’s a special player!”“Credit to Flavio Cobolli for the way he fought today. Both players gave everything to the game.Zverev entered the tournament as a favorite, especially after several top contenders were eliminated early. World No. 1 Jannik Sinner was knocked out while struggling Novak Djokovic Also out of the tournament. Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz withdrew early from the event due to injury.Having lost his previous three Grand Slam finals, including the 2024 French Open final and the 2020 US Open final, after leading, Zverev ensured that history would not repeat itself. The victory marked the 25th title of his professional career and put him among a select group of players who won their first major title in their fourth Grand Slam final.For Koboli, reaching the final was already a career best. The Italian had never advanced past the quarterfinals of a Grand Slam before this tournament and was hoping to become Italy’s first men’s French Open champion since 1976.Although Zverev dominated early on, Koboli fought back and pushed the match into a decisive fifth set. However, the Italian’s energy seemed to run out in the closing stages, allowing Xavierio to take control and finally capture the Grand Slam crown he had been chasing for years.
