PARIS — Novak Djokovic took another step toward tennis immortality on Tuesday, defeating Alexander Zverev in a grueling four-set battle to advance to the French Open semifinals. The victory keeps alive his pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title and sets up a blockbuster clash with rising star Jannik Sinner.
Djokovic Outlasts Zverev in Marathon Quarterfinal
In a rematch of their 2023 Roland Garros semifinal, Djokovic overcame a slow start to defeat Zverev 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-4, 6-4 in a match lasting over four hours. The 37-year-old Serb showcased his trademark resilience, saving 12 of 16 break points while converting 5 of his 9 opportunities. "It was one of the toughest matches I've played here," Djokovic admitted afterward. "Sascha pushed me to my absolute limits."
Key moments that decided the match:
- Zverev's dominant first set where he won 92% of first-serve points
- Djokovic's clutch tiebreak performance in the second set
- A crucial break in the ninth game of the fourth set
Historic Milestones Within Reach
With this victory, Djokovic achieves several remarkable feats:
- Extends his record to 47 Grand Slam semifinal appearances
- Maintains a perfect 6-0 record in French Open quarterfinals
- Moves within two wins of becoming the first man to win 25 majors
"The numbers motivate me," Djokovic said when asked about the records. "But when I'm on court, I'm just focused on the next point, the next game. The history will take care of itself."
Sinner Awaits in Semifinal Showdown
Youth vs. Experience
Djokovic's next challenge comes against 22-year-old Jannik Sinner, who defeated Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets earlier in the day. The Italian has been in scintillating form:
- Won his first major at the Australian Open in January
- Leads the ATP Tour with a 33-2 record in 2024
- Will become world No. 1 if he reaches the final
The head-to-head favors Djokovic 4-2, but Sinner has won two of their last three meetings. "Jannik is playing the best tennis of his life," Djokovic acknowledged. "I'll need to raise my level again."
Tactical Battle Ahead
Analysts expect a fascinating contrast in styles:
- Sinner's explosive baseline power vs. Djokovic's defensive mastery
- Djokovic's 83% career semifinal win rate vs. Sinner's 60%
- Potential rain delays that could affect both players' rhythm
Zverev Reflects on Missed Opportunities
For Zverev, the loss marked another near-miss at Roland Garros, where he's now 0-3 in quarterfinals. "I had my chances," the German lamented. "Against Novak, you have to take them when they come." The match was particularly emotional for Zverev, who is still facing domestic abuse allegations in Germany.
The Road to History
Should Djokovic defeat Sinner, he would face either Carlos Alcaraz or Casper Ruud in what could be a historic final. The Serb is chasing several unprecedented achievements:
- First man to win each Grand Slam at least four times
- Oldest French Open champion in the Open Era
- First player to hold all four majors simultaneously three separate times
As the tennis world turns its attention to Friday's semifinal, Djokovic remains characteristically focused. "Every match here could be my last French Open," the 37-year-old reflected. "That's why I give everything each time I step on court."
The Djokovic-Sinner semifinal promises to be a generational clash that could shape the future of men's tennis. With history on the line and both players in peak form, Roland Garros prepares for what many are calling the de facto final before the final.