Alexander Zverev has explained why his grandmother will not be able to attend the Wimbledon final, citing her Russian passport and lack of a visa as the primary obstacles. The world number four addressed the issue after his semi-final victory over British wildcard Arthur Fery, responding to a question about whether his grandmother would be in his box for the championship match.
Visa issues prevent grandmother's attendance
When asked if his grandmother would be present at the final, Zverev admitted: "She doesn't have a visa. She unfortunately has a Russian passport still, so..." The German tennis star had hoped to have his grandmother in the stands after she supported him during the French Open final last month at Roland Garros. He added: "It was great when she was there. I hope, or I know that our chancellor is coming to the final. Maybe he can help with a passport or a longer visa for her, and then she can stay a bit longer, but she had to go back after 90 days."
Impact on Zverev's support system
The absence of his grandmother marks a significant change from the French Open, where her presence was a notable source of encouragement. Zverev's comments highlight the ongoing visa restrictions affecting Russian passport holders, even for family members of elite athletes competing in the UK. The Wimbledon final is scheduled to take place at the All England Club, and Zverev will face either Novak Djokovic or Carlos Alcaraz for the title.
According to reports, the German chancellor is expected to attend the final, and Zverev jokingly suggested that the chancellor might assist with expediting a visa or passport for his grandmother. However, as of now, the grandmother remains unable to enter the UK due to standard visa requirements for Russian citizens.
