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German tennis player Alexander Zverev moved within two wins of a maiden Grand Slam title by reaching the French Open semi-finals on Tuesday, while Czech rising star Jakub Mensik ended Joao Fonseca's dream run.
Zverev stayed on course for the title by sweeping past Rafael Jodar with a 7-6 (7/3), 6-1, 6-3 victory, securing his place in the last four. The 29-year-old Zverev, the highest-ranked player left in the men's draw, has previously finished runner-up on three occasions, including at the 2024 French Open. "I want to win the matches that are ahead of me, that is my goal, that is my aim," Zverev said, having dropped only one set en route to the semi-finals. This marks the fifth time in six years that he reached this stage in Paris. "I'm happy to be in the semi-finals, for now," he added.
Meanwhile, the 19-year-old Jodar faced challenges, struggling after losing a 5-2 lead in the opening set under the roof on Court Philippe Chatrier. Zverev was set to next face Mensik, who defeated Brazilian sensation Fonseca in a stunning upset. Mensik won 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (7/3) against the 19-year-old Fonseca, extending his best run at a Grand Slam. "It was one of my best performances so far," Mensik remarked, having utilized seven match points to overcome the determined Fonseca. Fonseca notably showcased his talent earlier in the tournament with wins over players like Novak Djokovic and Casper Ruud but fell short against Mensik. "Coming from a little injury and not having any expectations for this tournament and doing a great run... it's a positive week," Fonseca stated, expressing confidence from his performance despite the loss.
In women's competition, Marta Kostyuk and Mirra Andreeva secured their spots for a last-four showdown. Kostyuk endured a tough match against compatriot Elina Svitolina, ultimately prevailing 6-3, 2-6, 6-2 in the first all-Ukrainian women's quarter-final at a Grand Slam. Kostyuk dedicated her victory to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict, stating, "We had another difficult night in Ukraine, especially in Kyiv where so many people died, so I want to give this match to Ukraine."
Andreeva breezed past Romania's Sorana Cirstea with a 6-0, 6-3 victory, reaching her second French Open semi-final. She expressed happiness over the win, commenting, "I'm super happy that I'm going to be playing in semis again." Overall, the tournament provided many dramatic moments, reflecting the intense competition in both the men's and women's draws.
Source : france24.com.