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Rafael Nadal Congratulates Alexander Zverev on Reaching World Number One

Alexander Zverev has become the 30th player since 1973 to reach the world number one ranking in men's tennis. He secured this position after his victory against Tallon Griekspoor in Vienna and officially took over the top spot on Monday, surpassing five-time Grand Slam winner Jannik Sinner.

The German athlete is now the second-oldest player to achieve the number one ranking since official records began in 1973, with only seven-time major champion John Newcombe being older when he reached the top.

Rafael Nadal's Message to Zverev

Rafael Nadal, who coached Zverev at the Rafa Nadal Academy last year, sent a heartfelt message congratulating him on his milestone. On X, Nadal wrote:

"Hey Sascha, many congrats for this amazing achievement. I know how hard you worked to achieve your dreams. Finally you did it this year – two Grand Slams, now world number one. Many congratulations, super happy for you and all the very best in the future."

Support from Tennis Legends

Several renowned players from past and present also praised Zverev’s accomplishment.

  • Jannik Sinner: "Huge congrats for an incredible year. Two Grand Slams and now you are number one in the world. The 30th in history, so congrats to you, your family, and your whole team. Enjoy it, and hope to see you soon."
  • Pete Sampras: "Just want to send you a quick message congratulating you on an incredible year. To reach three straight major finals, win two, and finish year-end number one is one of the best years ever. Congratulations on all your success. I've been a big fan since you started. Watching you break through this year was exciting—you deserve it. You do all the right things and work hard. Well deserved, good luck for the rest of the year and hope to meet you someday."

Other notable congratulators included Jim Courier, Juan Carlos Ferrero, Jimmy Connors, and Gustavo Kuerten.

Zverev's 2026 Grand Slam Results

  • Australian Open: Lost in semi-finals to Carlos Alcaraz
  • Roland Garros: Defeated Flavio Cobolli in the final
  • Wimbledon: Lost to Jannik Sinner in the final
  • US Open: Defeated Ben Shelton in the final

With two major titles this year, Zverev is gearing up for the Paris Masters, marking his first tournament as world number one. His next opponent will be former world number four Lorenzo Musetti, who recently won his third career title in Lyon, France.

Zverev Reacts to Receiving World Number One Trophy

At the Paris Masters ceremony on Monday, Zverev was awarded the world number one trophy. He shared a reflective post on Instagram:

"02.11.1984 — Our parents get married.02.11.2001 — I am diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.02.11.2009 — Our father is diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism.02.11.2015 — Marcelo Melo becomes world number one in doubles.02.11.2026 — I become World No. 1 in singles.One date. A lifetime of emotions."

Zverev is certain to finish 2026 as the top-ranked player, moving ahead of several past champions such as Pat Rafter, Carlos Moya, Yevgeny Kafelnikov, Marcelo Rios, Thomas Muster, John Newcombe, and Juan Carlos Ferrero in total weeks spent at number one.

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