Alexander Zverev marches into the French Open final, one win away from ending the Grand Slam curse

Germany’s Alexander Zverev (AP Photo/Christophe Ena) Alexander Zverev moved within touching distance of a long-awaited Grand Slam breakthrough after defeating Czech youngster Jakub Menšík in four sets to reach the French Open final on Friday.The German second seed beat Court Philippe-Chatrier 7-5, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 to keep alive his quest for a first major title and set up a championship match against Flavio Cobolli or Matteo Arnaldi.With several of the tournament’s biggest names no longer in contention, Zverev has become the overwhelming favorite in Paris. World number one Jannik Sinner’s campaign fell apart in the second round when he squandered a 5-1 lead against Juan Manuel Cerundola, while Carlos Alcaraz never made it into the draw after withdrawing with a right wrist injury.Even so, Zverev faced a stern examination from Mensik, who enjoyed a breakthrough fortnight in Paris. The 20-year-old reached the semi-finals after scoring impressive wins over Andrey Rublev and Brazil’s rising star João Fonseca, continuing his memorable run despite struggling physically at the start of the tournament.“He beat so many incredible players. I knew it was going to be the hardest challenge I’ve had so far. And I did it. I won. I’m happy,” Zverev said.The match started in difficult conditions, with a gusty wind causing problems for both players. Poorly timed shots were common in the early stages as they adjusted to swirling conditions and the roof remained open.Menšík tried to disrupt Zverev’s rhythm with frequent forward movement and serve-volley tactics, but the German’s consistency from the back of the court gradually tilted the match in his favor.The opening set turned a pair of expensive double faults from Menšík and allowed Zverev to secure the decisive break. The second seed strengthened his grip on the match in the following set, breaking early and taking advantage of another double fault to move further ahead.The pace shifted briefly in the third set. After receiving treatment for a neck problem and taking a medical break, Mensik returned with renewed aggression. He found more success with his drop shots and varied his tactics effectively, earning a break of serve and eventually claiming the set to spark hopes of a comeback.The Parisian crowd responded enthusiastically, cheering the young Czech as he tried to drag the match into a fifth set. It was a rare setback for Zverev, who had previously only dropped one set during the tournament.“He started the third set playing amazingly,” Zverev said. “These are best-of-five matches: You know things are (going to) happen. The opponents are going to play better. You have to deal with it. You have to handle it. I did. And I hope to have another great match on Sunday.”However, the German quickly gained control in the fourth set. His excellent movement and defensive skills repeatedly frustrated Menšík, who was forced into increasingly difficult positions. One exchange clinched the match perfectly as Zverev tracked down a net drive and produced a delicate backhand return that had Cech smiling admiringly.The victory sends Zverev into his fourth career Grand Slam final and offers another chance to erase the disappointment of previous near misses.His closest opportunity at Roland Garros came in 2024 when he led Carlos Alcaraz two sets to one before eventually falling. Four years earlier, he squandered a two-set lead against Dominic Thiem in the US Open final. He was recently defeated by Jannik Sinner in straight sets in the 2025 Australian Open final.Now that the title is within reach and many of the pre-tournament favorites already eliminated, Zverev has perhaps his best opportunity yet to secure the major trophy that has eluded him throughout his career.Zverev’s last Grand Slam final off the court also attracted attention due to allegations against former partners. After this match, a spectator shouted the names of two ex-girlfriends who accused him of physical abuse. One matter was resolved through a settlement involving German prosecutors and legal counsel, while an ATP investigation into a separate allegation concluded there was insufficient evidence to support disciplinary action.