We used to be losers, now we're Grand Slam champions, Zverev tells his faithful team

PARIS, June 7 : After years of injuries, heartbreak and near-misses, Alexander Zverev finally stood on Court Philippe Chatrier as a Grand Slam champion on Sunday and reflected on the long road that has led him to one of tennis's biggest prizes.

"We've been through so much through injuries, through heartbreak, through losses," an emotional Zverev told his team during the trophy ceremony after defeating Italy's Flavio Cobolli in the French Open final.

"We've been losers at some moments, but we're Grand Slam champions now. That's what counts."

The German's 6-1 4-6 6-4 6-7(5) 6-1 triumph completed one of the sport's most arduous journeys to a major title.

Four years after leaving Roland Garros in a wheelchair with seven broken bones in his foot and two years after suffering the agony of being beaten in the Paris final by Carlos Alcaraz, Zverev finally claimed the trophy that had long eluded him.

The 29-year-old paid tribute to the team that had remained by his side through the setbacks, joking that he could not get rid of either his father, who has coached him throughout his career, or his brother Mischa. He also thanked his physical trainer, who has worked with him since 2014.

"I probably have the longest-lasting team and coach on the tour," he said.

Zverev also reserved warm words for Cobolli, whose breakthrough fortnight ended one win short of a dream first Grand Slam title.

"From the bottom of my heart, I hope you lift this trophy very soon," Zverev told the Italian. "You're one of the best people on tour."

Cobolli praised Zverev after spending a few minutes trying to digest the five-set loss.

"I'm happy for you but I'm also sad because I was close and I feel it now that you (have) achieved your dream, let me win the next time,"