Paris, June 5, 2025 — The Europe Today: Novak Djokovic continued his pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title with a gritty four-set victory over Germany’s Alexander Zverev at Roland Garros, moving into the semi-finals after a high-octane battle under the lights of Court Philippe Chatrier.
The 38-year-old Serbian, seeded sixth, rallied from a set down to defeat the third seed 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 in a gripping encounter that spanned over three hours and 15 minutes. Djokovic, who has now secured his 101st win at the French Open, will next face world number one Jannik Sinner in a highly anticipated semi-final showdown.
“Matches like this are why I keep going. I love the competition,” said Djokovic after the match, visibly emotional as he raised his arms in triumph.
Slow Start, Ruthless Finish
Zverev started strong, breaking Djokovic’s serve in the opening game and maintaining his lead to clinch the first set — the first Djokovic had dropped in the tournament. But the Serb responded with typical resolve, breaking for 3-1 in the second set after Zverev misfired a backhand, and holding a crucial nine-minute service game with an ace to seize momentum.
The third set saw Djokovic fully assert himself. A sublime backhand drop-shot winner concluded a brilliant rally and sealed the set on his third opportunity. The 24-time Grand Slam champion exploited Zverev’s wavering confidence, adding another break after the German netted a forehand following a failed drop-shot attempt.
Zverev, a finalist in last year’s tournament, looked poised for a fightback in the fourth, but Djokovic saved a break point in spectacular fashion with a forehand pass that had the crowd roaring. He eventually converted his fifth match point to close out the contest.
End of the Road for Zverev
For Zverev, the defeat caps a frustrating clay-court season marked by early exits in Monte Carlo, Madrid, and Rome. Despite flashes of brilliance in Paris, he was unable to break Djokovic’s rhythm after the first set.
The German’s powerful serve and aggressive baseline play troubled Djokovic early on, but he gradually lost traction as the match wore on, visibly struggling with the Serb’s defensive tenacity and deft shot placement.
A Clash of Titans Awaits
Up next, Djokovic faces Italian sensation Jannik Sinner, who breezed past Alexander Bublik in straight sets earlier in the day. The match-up between the reigning Australian Open champion and the most decorated Grand Slam player in history is expected to be a marquee event of this year’s Roland Garros.
As Djokovic eyes Grand Slam number 25 and his fourth title on the Paris clay, fans around the world prepare for a thrilling encounter that could shape the future of men’s tennis.
