Roland Garros Tennis Tournament - Zverev advances to the semi-finals in Paris and cut short a TV interview in frustration.
Different from his previous two 5-set matches, Alexander Zverev's victory in the quarterfinal at the French Open was a relief. "It was crucial to win in three sets instead of spending 4.5 hours on the court," said the German tennis star following his 6-4, 7-6 (7-5), 6-4 win over Australian underdog Alex De Minaur on Wednesday evening.
Leading up to his semifinal against Casper Ruud, Zverev noted that being physically fresh is key. "The semifinals are more comfortable with being 100% in shape," he explained.
However, Ruud, who replaced Novak Djokovic after the latter's withdrawal due to injury in the quarterfinals, had a three-day gap. Zverev doesn't think this impacts him negatively: "I don't think I've got any disadvantages. Although, I feel great physically, and I have no health concerns."
Zverev Must Play His A-Game
Four-time semi-finalist, Zverev at the Roland Garros Grand Slam on clay, has won against Casper Ruud, who's known for his tactical prowess, but has never reached the finals. Zverev's take on their upcoming match: "I think I need to play my best tennis to have a shot."
Discussing Ruud, Zverev was brief in an earlier Eurosport interview - forcing a journalist to run laps. When inquired about why their expected semi-final match wouldn't end in three sets, Zverev grew irritated: "I don't know if there'll be a difference. We'll see on Friday," he replied. Asked how he would rate the game, he quashed the query: "That was three questions." He then ended the interview.
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Alexander Zverev will face Casper Ruud in the Semifinal of the French Open in Paris. Zverev, a four-time semi-finalist at Roland Garros, acknowledges the tactical strengths of Ruud but emphasizes the need to play his best tennis against him. During a previous interview, Zverev grew frustrated and ended it abruptly when asked about the length of their upcoming match. Despite Ruud having a three-day break due to Novak Djokovic's withdrawal, Zverev believes it won't affect him negatively as he feels physically fit and has no health concerns. The French Open's defending champion, Casper Ruud, has yet to reach the finals in any Grand Slam tournament, providing an opportunity for Zverev to advance to the finals of the French Open once again.
