Novak Djokovic achieved a remarkable feat at the French Open, becoming the oldest male player since 1968 to reach the semi-finals. His victory came against Alexander Zverev, whose performance was overshadowed by an unusual complaint about ingesting insects.
The 38-year-old Serbian star continues to demonstrate his enduring prowess on the clay courts of Paris, extending his winning streak there to 22 consecutive matches over the past three years.
Djokovic secured his place in the final four with a 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 win over the 28-year-old German late on Wednesday night. This sets up a highly anticipated semi-final clash with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner on Friday.
Third seed Zverev started strongly, claiming the first set in 49 minutes – the first time Djokovic had dropped a set in the tournament. However, momentum shifted dramatically after an odd moment.
Zverev was seen complaining to the umpire, stating, “I`ve swallowed about 50 flies already.” Following this comment, his game seemed to falter, and Djokovic took firm control of the match.
A particularly memorable point occurred in the sixth game of the fourth set, featuring an astonishing 41-shot rally that Djokovic somehow managed to win against the odds, showcasing his relentless defence and determination.
Zverev, who was the runner-up in the 2024 singles final after leading Carlos Alcaraz 2-1, has struggled to convert opportunities in major tournaments. This loss marked his ninth defeat in 14 encounters against the formidable 24-time Grand Slam champion.
Despite recently ending his coaching partnership with Andy Murray before the Paris tournament, Djokovic proved he still possesses the winning formula, particularly in extended matches lasting over three hours. He finally clinched the victory on his fifth match point.
Djokovic`s achievement of reaching the semi-finals at his age echoes the record set 57 years ago by American Richard “Pancho” Gonzales, who reached the same stage at the age of 40 before losing to Rod Laver.
In the other quarter-final match earlier in the day, Jannik Sinner delivered a dominant performance, defeating Alexander Bublik 6-1, 7-5, 6-0 in just under two hours. Sinner is on an impressive run, having now won 19 consecutive Grand Slam matches.
Bublik, known for his unpredictable style and frequent drop shots, made 37 unforced errors and landed only six drop-shot winners, half the number he managed against Jack Draper.
World No. 1 Sinner has been in irresistible form, following up his 2024 US Open title with victory at the Australian Open in January. He is now aiming for a third consecutive major title.
Commenting on his win, Sinner said: “We have played a couple of times before so we knew what to expect. But in the other way with him, you never know what is happening. He has beaten some tough players to get there.”
“I tried to stay focused on my side of the court. Play as solidly as possible. He can have some ups and downs. I tried to stay consistent the whole match and serve well in the important matches.”
He added, “It was a good performance from my side. It was a bit windy and breezy, so things can be complicated. I warmed up in the hotel because it was rainy, then the sun came out. A lot of different challenges.”
