Zverev Sweeps Jodar in Straight Sets, Reaches French Open Semifinals

(Central News Agency, Paris, 2nd, Combined Foreign News) German tennis star Alexander Zverev overcame an unstable start to defeat Spanish youngster Rafael Jodar 7-6(7/3), 6-1, 6-3 on Tuesday, advancing to the semifinals of the French Open as he continues his pursuit of a first Grand Slam title.

According to Reuters, with Spanish powerhouse Carlos Alcaraz sidelined by injury, and world number one Jannik Sinner of Italy and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic of Serbia both eliminated, second-seeded Zverev has a golden opportunity to win the Grand Slam title.

He was broken early in the first set but managed to steady himself and rally for the win. This marks his fifth time reaching the French Open men's singles semifinals in the last six years.

He will next face either Czech rising star Jakub Mensik or Brazilian newcomer Joao Fonseca for a spot in the final.

Asked if he was happy to reach the semifinals again, Zverev made it clear he expects more than just the final four. "No, I don't really care. I want to keep going, stay on the court, win the matches in front of me. That's my goal," he said.

Zverev added, "It was a very tough test. I was playing against a very good player."