Zverev overpowers Jodar to reach fifth Roland Garros semi-final

Alexander Zverev strengthened his status as one of the leading contenders for the 2026 French Open title after defeating rising Spanish star Rafael Jodar in straight sets to secure a place in the semi-finals at Roland Garros.

The German second seed overcame abdifficult opening set before cruising to a 7-6(3), 6-1, 6-3 victory under the closed roof of Court Philippe-Chatrier. The win sends Zverev into his fifth Roland Garros semi-final in the last six years and keeps alive his pursuit of a long-awaited first Grand Slam crown.

Zverev finds answers after slow start

Jodar arrived in Paris as one of the breakout performers of the clay-court season and immediately demonstrated why he has become one of the most talked-about young talents in men's tennis.

The 19-year-old Spaniard played aggressively from the baseline and used his heavy forehand to unsettle Zverev early, earning a break of serve and building a 5-2 advantage in the opening set.

However, the experience of the German eventually proved decisive. Zverev steadied his game, increased the depth of his groundstrokes, and won five of the next six games to force a tie-break. Once he claimed the opener, momentum shifted dramatically in his favour.

The world No. 3 dominated the second set and carried that authority into the third, never allowing Jodar back into the contest.

Roland Garros opportunity opens up

With several pre-tournament favourites already eliminated, including top-ranked players earlier in the event, Zverev finds himself in arguably the strongest position of his career to finally capture a major title.

The 29-year-old has reached multiple Grand Slam finals but is still searching for his first championship. His consistency in Paris has been impressive, dropping just one set through five matches.

His serve was once again a key weapon against Jodar, helping him control rallies and dictate play throughout the match.

Jodar’s breakthrough continues despite defeat

Although his tournament ended in the quarter-finals, Rafael Jodar leaves Roland Garros with his reputation significantly enhanced.

Just twelve months ago, the Spaniard was ranked outside the world's top 700. Since then, he has enjoyed a remarkable rise that includes his first ATP title and deep runs at several major clay-court tournaments.

His quarter-final appearance in Paris is expected to propel him further up the rankings and confirms his emergence as one of the brightest young prospects in men's tennis.

Semi-final clash awaits

Zverev will now face Czech sensation Jakub Mensik in the semi-finals after the 20-year-old defeated Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca to reach his first Grand Slam last four.

The semi-final carries added significance as the men's draw is guaranteed to produce a first-time Grand Slam champion, creating a rare opportunity for the remaining contenders.

For Zverev, the mission remains clear: turn years of consistency into the biggest title of his career.

SportsLigue