What happens when you find your best friend in your competitor? Well, things might get extra quirky and fun because the on-court tension can transform into a moment of laughter. Germany’s Alexander Zverev and Russia’s Andrey Rublev experienced something similar because of their deep bond since childhood. Despite playing against each other, these two remain to be great friends. In a recent stunt, Alexander Zverev offered a peek into his relationship with Rublev by doing what most people do to their close ones. So, what was it?

Zverev had a funny moment with Andrey Rublev at the 2024 ATP Final press conference. The German player has been a friend of Rublev since they were ten. The Russian called Zverev his “best friend” highlighting a great bond. Zverev and Rublev also displayed their amazing friendship during a practice session at this year’s Roland Garros. They brought a toll of laughter among the attendees by their playful attitude towards each other. Recently, they met at the ATP Finals’ press conference and had casual casual fun.

The official X profile of Tennis TV shared a clip where Zverev was seen leg-pulling his childhood friend and colleague Rublev. When the host asked them, “Did you have trouble finding your seat?” Zverev responded, “We have one person who can’t read that well. Is that you Andrey?” After Zverev’s hilarious dig at the Russian player, Rublev answered, “No who is that” and everyone laughed at the moment. The host finally concluded by saying “We don’t know, we don’t know” to continue with the light-hearted attitude of the players. The German ATP star playfully mocked Rublev’s poor English reading skills. However, Rublev’s expression showcased that he enjoyed the light joke. Sharing the clip, the Tennis TV tweeted, “Having trouble finding your seat?” Zverev jokes with Rublev at the #NittoATPFinals.” 

Zverev and Rublev’s friendship is long established in the media. Remember when the Russian player defeated his German best friend in the Swedish Open’s quarterfinals last year. “To play your best friend is always tough. Win or lose, it’s a s*it feeling,” Rublev said following his victory. These two players have shown great bonding despite their on-court rivalries. In the 2024 French Open, the players offered a display of their relationship and warmed the hearts of many.

Alexander Zverev turned hairstylist for friend Andrey Rublev

During their 2024 French Open run, Zverev and Rublev attended a practice session together. Despite their focus on their performance, the duo couldn’t help but lighten up their mood with some playful banter. The world’s number two tried to tie his Russian friend’s hair into a fountain ponytail and while he did it, Rublev gripped him playfully initiating laughter among the spectators. The ATP no 9 admires the German player a lot. When Zverev defeated Rublev at the Masters 1000 event in Rome, Rublev asked for the former’s autograph on a shirt. This moment showcased how deeply Rublev cares for Zverev and enjoys the latter’s success in the sport.

Alexander Zverev and Andrey Rublev’s bond is a reminder that true friendships always survive no matter what. Despite on-court rivalries, the duo has successfully nurtured their friendship and delighted the world. Their efforts in their friendship prove that players can keep the rivalry limited to court.