Zverev’s path to the semi-finals
Alexander Zverev, the second seed, has secured his place in the semi-finals of the French Open after defeating Spanish teenager Rafael Jodar in straight sets. The German player won the quarter-final match with a score of 7-6 (7-3), 6-1, 6-3. This victory marks another step for Zverev towards potentially winning his first Grand Slam title.
Jodar, the 27th seed in Paris, had an impressive start to the match, establishing a 5-2 lead in the first set. He demonstrated strong shot-making, pushing Zverev behind the baseline. However, Zverev managed to break Jodar’s serve to love when the Spaniard attempted to serve out the set, subsequently taking control of the match.
From that point, Zverev maintained his dominance, serving effectively and attacking freely, which allowed him to progress through the remaining sets. He has dropped only one set in his first five matches of the tournament, highlighting his strong form throughout the competition.
Match details and player performances
The match saw Zverev overcome an initial challenge from Jodar. Zverev acknowledged Jodar’s strong performance in the first set, noting that his own balls were short and he was playing defensively. He stated that he took his chances well, leading to a good match for him after the initial struggle.
Jodar, who made his Grand Slam debut in Australia in January and reached the second round, has exceeded expectations by reaching this stage in Paris. He entered the match leading the ATP in clay-court wins this year, with a 19-3 record, including quarter-final appearances in Madrid and Rome.
During the match, Jodar continued to fight, even forcing deuce in one game and holding serve at another point. Despite his efforts, Zverev’s consistent play, including an ace to wrap up a hold to 15, ensured his progression to the next round. Former French Open men’s doubles champion Ryan Harrison commented on Zverev’s performance, praising his ability to maintain his level even when Jodar elevated his game.
Zverev’s victory moves him level with Carlos Alcaraz in terms of men’s singles matches won at Grand Slams since 2020, with 91 wins. Only Novak Djokovic (124) and Jannik Sinner (93) have won more matches in that period.
Looking ahead to the semi-finals
In the semi-finals, Alexander Zverev will face the winner of the quarter-final match between Jakub Mensik and Joao Fonseca. Mensik, a 20-year-old Czech player and the 26th seed, will compete against Fonseca, a 19-year-old Brazilian and the 28th seed.
Mensik and Fonseca have played each other once before, at the 2024 Next Gen Finals, where Fonseca emerged victorious in a match that saw all five sets go to tie-breaks. Mensik has spent 13 hours on court during this tournament, while Fonseca has played for 14 hours and 29 minutes. Mensik notably collapsed with cramp after a four-hour and 41-minute second-round win during a Paris heatwave.
Zverev expressed his determination to continue in the tournament, stating his goal is to win the matches ahead of him. He plans to watch the upcoming quarter-final match from his room on television. Zverev has appeared in 10 Grand Slam semi-finals, winning three of them, indicating the challenge that lies ahead.
The cooler temperatures in Paris and the closed roof on Court Philippe Chatrier are expected to assist the players as they navigate their physical demands. The winner of the Mensik versus Fonseca match will go on to face Zverev in the semi-finals.
