Alexander Zverev applauds Cerundolo’s performance after Munich semi-final

Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images for Laver Cup

Alexander Zverev has reached the semifinals of the Munich Open for a fifth time in his career after overcoming Francisco Cerundolo in three sets.

Cerundolo had previously led their head-to-head 3-0, and he started well again by taking the first set. But Zverev responded with a dominant second set, not dropping a game to level the match.

Zverev’s strong finish carried over into the decider, where he took control to win 5-7, 6-0, 6-2. The result keeps his title defence alive in front of his home fans.

He is aiming to repeat last year’s success when he won the tournament for the first time since 2018, beating Ben Shelton in that final.

Photo by WILLIAM WEST / AFP via Getty Images

Alexander Zverev shares thoughts after win over Francisco Cerundolo

In his post-match interview, Zverev said: “I thought it was an incredible level actually. Even in the first set, when I was up 4-1, he started playing unbelievable.

“He started returning unbelievable. My first service angle was very, very high, and every single return was a foot in front of the baseline, so nothing I could do to be honest.

“But I was happy with my level even in the first set. Definitely happy to get the win today against Francisco for the first time on clay.

“If he continues playing that way, then you just got to say it was too good today from him.

“I just had to continue playing my level, continue playing my game, continue using my chances. I did that and got the win in the end.’

Alexander Zverev looks ahead to Flavio Cobolli’s matchup