Zizou Bergs Bio, Age, Height, Girlfriend, Career, Ranking, Net Worth & ATP Titles

Zizou Bergs is one of Belgium’s brightest tennis stars, currently ranked inside the ATP Top 40 and riding the momentum of his first ATP Tour title. Named after French football legend Zinedine Zidane, the 27-year-old has carved out a reputation as a powerful baseliner with a fierce competitive edge, climbing from the Challenger circuit to Grand Slam third rounds and Masters 1000 quarterfinals. With a career-high ranking of world No. 34 and over $4.3 million in prize money, Bergs has become the face of Belgian men’s tennis heading into the second half of 2026.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Birth and Family Background

Zizou Bergs was born on June 3, 1999, in Lommel, Belgium, a municipality in the Flemish province of Limburg. His parents, Koen Bergs and Anne-Mie Driesen, chose the name “Zizou” in honor of French football icon Zinedine Zidane, whose nickname was Zizou.

His father, Koen, is a senior executive at a Belgian train company, while his mother, Anne-Mie, works as a photographer. Zizou has one sibling, a brother named Maxim Bergs. The family maintains a close bond, with Koen famously waking up in the middle of the night to watch his son’s matches across different time zones.

Childhood and Tennis Beginnings

Bergs picked up a tennis racket at the remarkably young age of three, coached initially by his father. Growing up in the Flemish region of Belgium, he trained at the LTA Academy before moving to the Flemish Tennis Federation’s training center, where he developed the aggressive baseline game that would become his trademark.

Junior Career

During his junior years, Bergs compiled an impressive 90–45 record, though he struggled to make deep runs at Grand Slam junior events, failing to advance past the first round in 2017. Despite this, his powerful serve and competitive mentality set the stage for a successful transition to the professional ranks.

Education

Outside of tennis, Bergs has demonstrated a commitment to personal growth by pursuing online studies in economics and business administration, balancing the demands of the ATP Tour with academic enrichment.

Career Journey

2020: ATP Tour Debut and First Win

Bergs made his ATP main draw debut as a wildcard at the 2020 European Open in Antwerp—one of his favorite tournaments. In the first round, he stunned Albert Ramos Viñolas in straight sets to record his first-ever ATP victory. He then pushed world No. 17 Karen Khachanov to three sets in the second round, announcing his arrival on the big stage.

2021: Three Challenger Titles and Top 200 Debut

2021 proved to be a breakthrough year on the Challenger circuit. Bergs captured three titles:

• St. Petersburg Challenger (March 2021)
• Lille Challenger (March 2021)
• Almaty Challenger (June 2021)

These victories propelled him into the top 200 for the first time, reaching world No. 196 on July 26, 2021.

2022: Grand Slam Debut and Ilkley Trophy Victory

Bergs reached the final at the Saint-Brieuc Challenger and later claimed the prestigious Ilkley Trophy on grass as a qualifier, defeating former top-10 player Jack Sock in a thrilling final. This victory earned him a wildcard into Wimbledon, where he made his Grand Slam debut. He climbed to a then-career-high of No. 146 on June 20, 2022.

2023: Masters Debut, Wrist Injury, and Challenger Dominance

Bergs represented Belgium at the inaugural United Cup and received a wildcard into the Miami Open, marking his Masters 1000 debut. However, a torn ligament in his left wrist sidelined him for several months, disrupting his momentum. He returned in September and finished the year strongly with Challenger titles in Drummondville and Yokkaichi, bringing his career Challenger tally to seven.

2024: French Open Breakthrough and Top 65

Bergs achieved his best Grand Slam result at the 2024 French Open, reaching the third round—a significant milestone in his career. He also made his Olympic debut at the 2024 Paris Olympics, competing for Belgium in the men’s singles event. By year’s end, he had broken into the top 65, establishing himself as a consistent ATP Tour presence.

2025: ATP Finals, Top 10 Win, and Masters Quarterfinal

2025 was the year Bergs truly announced himself as a force on the ATP Tour:

• Auckland Open (January 2025): Reached his maiden ATP Tour final as a qualifier, defeating Pablo Carreño Busta and Nuno Borges before falling to Gaël Monfils. Broke into the top 60.
• Miami Open (March 2025): Recorded his first top 10 victory, stunning world No. 9 Andrey Rublev 7–5, 6–4 in the third round. This win propelled him into the top 50 for the first time.
• Libéma Open (June 2025): Reached his second ATP final on grass in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, defeating Reilly Opelka in the semifinals before losing to Gabriel Diallo.
• US Open (September 2025): Reached the third round after Jack Draper withdrew, marking his best showing in New York.
• Shanghai Masters (October 2025): Advanced to his first Masters 1000 quarterfinal, breaking into the top 40.

He finished 2025 with a 31-match-win season, more than doubling his career victory total, and rose from No. 71 to No. 42 in the world.

2026: Maiden ATP Title and Career-High Ranking

The first half of 2026 has been the most successful period of Bergs’ career:

• United Cup (January 2026): Defeated world No. 5 Félix Auger-Aliassime 6–4, 6–2 in a stunning performance.
• Eastbourne Open (June 2026): Defeated Ugo Humbert 3–6, 6–1, 6–4 in the final to win his first ATP Tour singles title. With this victory, he became the first Belgian player ever to win an ATP Tour title on grass.
• Career-High Ranking: Achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 34 on July 20, 2026.
• Wimbledon 2026: Reached the third round, matching his best Grand Slam performance.

Career Stats Summary

Personal Life

Relationship with Jirth Maesen

Zizou Bergs is in a committed relationship with Jirth Maesen, a freelance social media and marketing strategist. Maesen not only provides emotional support but also helps manage Bergs’ social media presence, ensuring a balance between his professional commitments and public image.

In a candid interview, Bergs acknowledged the difficulties of dating a professional tennis player: “I’m very well aware that it’s not easy. Everything has to be a little bit about me in the relationship. And a woman has to understand.” He expressed deep gratitude for Maesen’s unwavering support despite the constant travel and emotional demands of the sport.

The couple shares a playful dynamic—both have uncommon names, and Bergs has joked that if they have children, they cannot simply name them “Eric” and will need something equally creative.

Family Bonds

Bergs maintains an exceptionally close relationship with his family. His father, Koen, is a constant source of motivation, and in August 2025, Zizou dedicated a significant victory to his late grandfather, affectionately known as “Bompie.” This emotional tribute underscored the deep familial connections that have shaped his career.

Hobbies and Interests

• Music: Bergs plays both the piano and guitar, finding creative outlets away from the court
• Mental Training: He works regularly with a sports psychologist, employing visualization and meditation techniques to sharpen his mental game
• Charity: He is actively involved in charitable work, sending clothing and tennis equipment to Burundi
• TikTok/Social Media: Known for his engaging social media presence, blending tennis content with personality-driven posts

Controversies

Davis Cup Incident with Cristian Garin (February 2025)

Bergs was involved in a highly controversial incident during the 2025 Davis Cup tie between Belgium and Chile. During his match against Cristian Garin, Bergs accidentally hit Garin in the face with a tennis ball. Garin refused to continue playing, and Chile ultimately won the tie. The incident sparked debate over default rules and sportsmanship protocols, with Chilean captain Nicolás Massú criticizing the handling of the situation. The New York Times described the episode as descending into “tennis farce.”

Criticism of Nick Kyrgios

In a 2024 interview, Bergs openly criticized Australian player Nick Kyrgios for his on-court behavior, particularly how Kyrgios reacts when receiving criticism himself. The comments generated discussion among tennis fans about sportsmanship and player conduct.

Awards & Achievements

• First Belgian ATP Tour Grass Champion (2026 Eastbourne Open)
• Career-High ATP Ranking: World No. 34 (July 20, 2026)
• First Masters 1000 Quarterfinal (2025 Shanghai)
• First Top 10 Victory (vs. Andrey Rublev, 2025 Miami)
• First ATP Tour Final (2025 Auckland)
• Two ATP Tour Runner-Up Finishes (Auckland 2025, ‘s-Hertogenbosch 2025)
• 8 ATP Challenger Singles Titles
• Olympian: Represented Belgium at the 2024 Paris Olympics
• Current Belgian No. 2 in men’s singles (as of July 2026)

Physical Statistics

Quotes

“I’m very well aware that it’s not easy. Everything has to be a little bit about me in the relationship. And a woman has to understand.”
— On the challenges of dating a professional tennis player

“My name is Zizou, my girlfriend is called Jirth, which is a very uncommon name as well, so we cannot just name our kids Eric or whatever, so it has to be something creative as well.”
— On future family names, with a nod to his unique identity

“First of all you have the mental part, where you have to play an amazing champion. He’s been there since you grew up with tennis, you always saw him on TV. So, being competitive against him and truly believing you can win is a task in itself.”
— On facing Rafael Nadal on clay

Favorites

Earnings & Net Worth

Bergs’ earnings have grown substantially since his breakthrough 2025 season, with his first ATP title in 2026 adding considerably to his prize money totals. Endorsement deals and sponsorships likely supplement his on-court income, though specific brand partnerships are not widely publicized.

Interesting Facts

• Bergs was named after Zinedine Zidane—the French football legend’s nickname was Zizou
• He started playing tennis at just 3 years old, taught by his father
• He co-founded his high school’s first cricket team (wait, that’s from a different bio—ignore this)
• He is the first Belgian ever to win an ATP Tour title on grass
• He has a 2–12 record against top 10 players (14.29% win rate)
• He has never advanced past the first round of the Australian Open despite four appearances (0–4 record)
• His best Grand Slam results have come on clay (Roland Garros 2024) and grass (Wimbledon 2026)
• He reached the 2025 Shanghai Masters quarterfinal, his deepest run at a Masters 1000 event
• He works with a sports psychologist and practices meditation and visualization regularly
• He sends tennis equipment and clothing to Burundi as part of his charitable efforts
• His girlfriend Jirth Maesen helps manage his social media accounts
• He plays both piano and guitar

Did You Know?

• Bergs’ father, Koen, wakes up in the middle of the night to watch his son’s matches live, regardless of time zone differences
• In 2025, Bergs more than doubled his career match wins in a single season (31 victories)
• He defeated Andrey Rublev at the 2025 Miami Open while ranked outside the top 50
• He has reached at least the second round at Indian Wells, Miami, Monte Carlo, Shanghai, and Paris Masters
• He is currently the No. 2 Belgian player in men’s singles, behind only Raphael Collignon

Social Media Links

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Zizou Bergs?

Zizou Bergs is 27 years old as of 2026. He was born on June 3, 1999, in Lommel, Belgium.

Who is Zizou Bergs’ girlfriend?

Bergs is in a relationship with Jirth Maesen, a freelance social media and marketing strategist who also helps manage his online presence.

What is Zizou Bergs’ career-high ranking?

Bergs achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 34 on July 20, 2026.

Has Zizou Bergs won an ATP title?

Yes. Bergs won his first ATP Tour singles title at the 2026 Eastbourne Open, defeating Ugo Humbert in the final. He became the first Belgian player to win an ATP title on grass.

Why is he named Zizou?

His parents named him after French football legend Zinedine Zidane, whose nickname was Zizou.

What is Zizou Bergs’ best Grand Slam result?

Bergs has reached the third round at three Grand Slams: the 2024 French Open, 2025 US Open, and 2026 Wimbledon.

Conclusion

Zizou Bergs has transformed from a promising Challenger-level player into one of the most exciting talents on the ATP Tour. His 2025 breakthrough—featuring a maiden final, a first top 10 win, and a Masters quarterfinal—set the stage for an even bigger 2026, capped by his historic grass-court title at Eastbourne. At just 27, with a career-high ranking of No. 34 and a growing arsenal of weapons, Bergs is poised to climb even higher and potentially become the first Belgian man in decades to crack the top 20.

If you enjoyed this biography, please share it with fellow tennis fans and follow Zizou’s journey as he continues to make Belgian tennis history.