Why is Alexander Zverev allowed to take mobile phone on court? Health reason gives Wimbledon star special dispensation

Alexander Zverev is permitted to use his phone courtside at Wimbledon during matches.

The French Open champion is the only player allowed to take their mobile phone out onto court at the All England Club.

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Zverev has special dispensation to do so due to an existing health condition.

The 29-year-old announced in 2022 that he has Type 1 diabetes, having been diagnosed aged three.

Despite his condition, Zverev played his first Wimbledon final against Jannik Sinner on Sunday afternoon.

Although he won the first set, he was ultimately beaten 6-7 (7-9), 7-6 (7-2), 6-3, 6-4 by the defending champion.

Why can Zverev use his phone on court?

Zverev uses his phone in order to check his glucose levels to know if and when he needs to take an insulin injection.

Commentator Andrew Castle explained the special dispensation during Sunday’s final.

Speaking on BBC One, he said: “Sascha Zverev is just taking his time managing his diabetes there with his pen.

“He’s the only player allowed to take a telephone out there because that monitors his blood sugar levels.”

In response, Andre Agassi added: “As if there’s not enough to worry about out there.”

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Due to his Type 1 diabetes, Zverev’s body does not produce insulin naturally, causing high blood sugar levels.

In order to manage this, he must regularly inject himself with insulin whenever his blood sugar levels get too high.

Having announced his diagnosis four years ago, Zverev also has his own charity foundation to support others with the condition.

However, his special dispensation to use his phone and injections during matches has not always been permitted.

The world No.3 was prevented from injecting insulin on court during a match at the 2023 French Open.

Zverev went on to reach the semi-finals at Roland Garros three years ago before losing to Casper Ruud.

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He has since avenged that defeat, though, by winning the title in Paris in June.

As well as being his first Grand Slam title, it also saw Zverev become the first player to win a major with Type 1 diabetes.