Medtronic has announced a partnership with professional tennis player Alexander Zverev and his foundation to elevate global awareness of type 1 diabetes.
Through this advocacy partnership, Zverev and Medtronic will amplify voices from the type 1 diabetes community and shine a light on the strength, resilience, and limitless potential of those overcoming the daily challenges of the disease — proving that diabetes doesn’t have to hold anyone back from living life to the fullest. By sharing his personal journey and defying expectations on and off the court, Zverev hopes to empower others living with diabetes to see what’s possible.
Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just four years old, Zverev spent years hiding his condition, fearing judgment. But now, he’s turning his story into a source of strength and inspiration.
“Becoming a professional tennis player was always my dream,” Zverev shared. “Early on, I was told that competing at the highest level with diabetes was impossible — but my family and I refused to accept that. That’s why I’m partnering with Medtronic Diabetes: I want every person with diabetes to feel empowered to live the life they want.”
At the heart of this partnership is a shared belief: managing diabetes should never stand in the way of living fully. Inspired by the desire to introduce more stability and predictability for people with diabetes, Medtronic Diabetes delivers cutting-edge technology — including automated insulin delivery systems — designed to reduce the daily burden of diabetes and help people stay in range*, sleep through the night, and live life on their terms.
“Alexander is a powerful example of constantly pushing the limits of what’s possible and inspiring millions along the way,” said Que Dallara, EVP and president of Medtronic Diabetes. “This is closely aligned with our Mission to make diabetes more predictable so everyone can embrace life to the fullest.”
Zverev defied early expectations to become one of the world’s best tennis players, reaching a career-high ATP ranking of No. 2, winning Olympic gold, and claiming two ATP Finals titles — all while living with type 1 diabetes. From a young age, he was told his condition would limit him, but he refused to accept that: “I was upset that these limits were placed on me as a kid — I didn’t think it was fair, and I don’t want any child to believe that about themselves,” Zverev shared.
In 2022, Zverev teamed up with his brother Mischa and parents, Irina and Alexander Zverev Sr., to launch the Alexander Zverev Foundation, which supports children with type 1 diabetes around the world. The foundation provides access to essential diabetes care — including insulin and other medication — and organizes activities like tennis and ski camps for children to promote healthy, active lifestyles. Together, Medtronic and Zverev are sending a clear message: diabetes may be part of your story — but it doesn’t write the ending.
