Tennis player Zverev is in motion.
French Open: Alexander Zverev Advances to Round of 16
Paris - Alexander Zverev, ranked third in the world, clinched a place in the Round of 16 at this year's French Open after a commanding victory over Italian clay-court specialist Flavio Cobolli. The 28-year-old German secured his spot with a 6:2, 7:6 (7:4), 6:1 triumph, marking his eighth successive appearance in the Round of 16 at Grand Slam events' second tournament of the season.
Since 2019, Zverev has consistently reached the semifinals or better at Roland Garros, having lost in the 2024 final to Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz. On Monday, Zverev faces Dutch player Tallon Griekspoor, having claimed their last encounter in Munich in a grueling three-set match.
"This court is special for me. I've had my best moments, but also my most bitter here," Zverev reflected after his victory on Court Philippe-Chatrier, where he suffered a severe ankle injury in the 2019 semifinals against Rafael Nadal. The German broke through after 2 hours and 30 minutes, converting his fourth match point.
Although Cobolli, a Hamburg tournament winner the week before, struggled to counter Zverev's aggressive play, the German's concentration waned after claiming the first set. Cobolli improved, and Zverev found himself trailing twice. However, he managed to force a tiebreak and regained control to take the second set. The rest of the match belonged to Zverev, who closed out the victory effortlessly.
Meanwhile, Daniel Altmaier faces American Frances Tiafoe on Sunday, aiming to secure a spot in the quarterfinals. Altmaier last reached the Round of 16 at Roland Garros in 2020, during the tournament's fall edition, contested without spectators due to the pandemic.
Though Zverev appears favored to advance against Griekspoor, the Dutchman has proven resilient and managed to push Zverev in their previous encounters. Their upcoming match will likely see another compact contest.
Related coverage:1. French Open2. Transfermarkt VfB Stuttgart3. DFB
Tennis is a sport that Alexander Zverev excels in, as demonstrated by his commanding victory over Flavio Cobolli in the French Open. His upcoming match against Tallon Griekspoor promises to be another intense tennis competition.
