By Tanmay Sharma
Photo Credit: The Suncity News
New Delhi, June 2, 2026: Alexander Zverev strengthened his status as the leading contender for the French Open title on Tuesday, defeating rising Spanish prospect Rafeal Jodar in straight sets to secure a place in the semi-final at Roland Garros.
The second seed produced a commanding performance, winning 7-6 (6/3), 6-1,6-3 to reach his fifth French Open semi-final in the past six editions of the tournament.
Alexander Zverev is the strongest contender for the title:
With the early exit of top seed Jannik Sinner and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic, Zverev is now widely viewed as one of the strongest contenders for his maiden Grand Slam crown.
Despite reaching three major finals in his career, including the French Open final two years ago, Zverev is still seeking his first Grand Slam title.
Reflecting on his campaign, the German said his focus remains solely on the match ahead.
“I want to win the matches that are ahead of me, that is my goal, that is my aim. I just want to keep going,” Zverev said after the match.
Alexander Zverev will next face Joao Fonseca or Jakub Mensik for a place in the final.
Jodar (19) made a strong start and secured the first break of the match in the opening set.
However, Alexander Zverev responded immediately, breaking back as the Spaniard served for the set before taking control in the tie-break.
The German then raised his level considerably in the second set, breaking serve twice to move within one set of victory.
Alexander Zverev refused Jodar for the comeback in the match:
Any hopes of a comeback from Jodar were dashed when Alexander Zverev claimed an early break in the third set and maintained his advantage throughout.
Serving to stay in the tournament, Jodar could not withstand the pressure as Zverev converted his first match point with a powerful forehand winner, sealing an emphatic victory and another deep run in Paris.
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EOM.
