Alexander Zverev storms into fifth French Open semifinal in six years

Second seed Alexander Zverev battled back from a difficult start to defeat Spanish teenager Rafael Jodar 7-6(3), 6-1, 6-3 and reach the semifinals of the French Open for the fifth time in six years.

Jodar troubled last year’s finalist by taking a 5-2 lead in the opening set, but Zverev responded with his trademark composure, winning five of the next six games before dominating the remainder of the contest. The German, who has lost only one set in the tournament so far, extended his impressive clay-court form and moved a step closer to a maiden Grand Slam title.

Zverev will next face either Jakub Mensik or Joao Fonseca for a place in the final.