After three previous final defeats, Zverev triumphs over Flavio Cobolli in a thrilling five-set match
Category: Sports
PARIS – Alexander Zverev of Germany finally captured his first Grand Slam title on June 7, 2026, defeating Italy's Flavio Cobolli in a gripping five-set match at the French Open. Zverev, who has long been regarded as one of the best players without a major championship, won the final with a score of 6-1, 4-6, 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-1, marking a monumental moment in his career.
This victory comes after Zverev faced heartbreak in three previous Grand Slam finals, including a devastating loss to Carlos Alcaraz in the 2024 French Open, where he led by two sets before succumbing. His previous attempts also included runner-up finishes at the U.S. Open in 2020 and the Australian Open in 2025. With this win, Zverev has transformed his narrative from perennial nearly-man to Grand Slam champion.
In the final match, Zverev dominated the first set with a commanding 6-1 victory. Cobolli, who was competing in his first Grand Slam final, rallied back to take the second set 6-4, showing resilience and determination. The match saw Zverev break Cobolli multiple times, yet Cobolli displayed his grit by pushing the match to a fifth set.
As the final set unfolded, Zverev's experience and skill began to shine through. He managed to break Cobolli's serve early and maintained the lead, eventually closing out the match decisively. Zverev's victory was not just a personal triumph but also a reflection of his potential that had long been anticipated by fans and analysts alike.
Before the final, Zverev had been a heavy favorite, especially with top competitors Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner absent from the tournament. Zverev's path to the final included a series of impressive victories, having dropped only two sets throughout the tournament. The German player had previously expressed confidence heading into the match, stating, "The only thing I can control is that I play good tennis. I mean, I'll try to show my level. I'll try to do the right things. That's the only thing that matters to me."
Cobolli, on the other hand, reached the final after a remarkable run, including a quarterfinal victory over fourth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime. His semifinal opponent, Matteo Arnaldi, withdrew due to illness, giving Cobolli extra rest before the final. This was a unique opportunity for Cobolli, who had never advanced past the third round at Roland Garros before this year.
As the match progressed, it became evident that both players were feeling the physical strain of the intense competition. Cobolli was seen receiving treatment from a physio during the match, highlighting the toll of the lengthy encounter. Zverev, meanwhile, maintained a strong focus, utilizing his powerful serve and baseline play to secure key points.
Following Zverev's historic win, he is expected to rise in the ATP rankings as he now joins the elite club of Grand Slam champions. His victory at the French Open validates his talent and sets the stage for future competitions where he will likely be viewed as a serious contender.
For Cobolli, this final marks a remarkable achievement in his burgeoning career. As he prepares for future tournaments, the experience gained from competing on such a prestigious stage will undoubtedly serve him well. His performance in the final has positioned him as a rising star in the tennis world, and he is expected to continue making strides in the rankings.
As the tennis season progresses, both players will look ahead to upcoming tournaments, with Zverev aiming to build on his momentum as a newly crowned champion. His next challenge will be to maintain consistency and cope with the pressures that come with being a Grand Slam winner.
In the aftermath of the match, Zverev expressed his gratitude and joy, stating, "It feels incredible to finally win a Grand Slam. I have worked so hard for this moment, and I am thankful for everyone who supported me along the way." The tennis community eagerly anticipates what lies ahead for both Zverev and Cobolli as they continue their journeys in professional tennis.