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Zverev Matches Federer, Nadal & Sinner with Historic Madrid QF Win

Alexander Zverev defeated Flavio Cobolli 6-1, 6-4 to reach the Madrid Open semi-finals. The German joined Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Jannik Sinner as the only men to reach the last four at the first four Masters 1000 events in a season. Zverev also broke Philipp Kohlschreiber's record for most clay wins by a German man in the Open Era. He will next face Alexander Blockx, who upset defending champion Casper Ruud.

Key Points: Zverev Reaches Madrid SF, Joins Elite Group

  • Zverev beats Cobolli 6-1, 6-4 in Madrid QF
  • Joins Federer, Nadal, Sinner in historic Masters 1000 feat
  • Breaks German clay wins record (179)
  • Faces Alexander Blockx in semi-final
2 min read

Zverev joins Federer, Nadal & Sinner feat with Madrid QF win

Alexander Zverev beats Flavio Cobolli to reach Madrid SF, joining Federer, Nadal & Sinner as only men to reach first four Masters 1000 semis in a season.

"With some impressive serving, Zverev was only truly challenged one time in the match - Match report"

Madrid, May 1

Alexander Zverev maintained his impressive consistency at the ATP Masters 1000 level at the Madrid Open, where he eased past Flavio Cobolli 6-1, 6-4 inside Manolo Santana Stadium to book his place in the semi-finals.

With his 90-minute victory, the German became just the fourth man to reach the semi-finals at each of the first four Masters 1000 events of the season since the series began in 1990, joining Roger Federer (2006), Rafael Nadal (2010, 2011) and Jannik Sinner (2026).

Moreover, with his win over Cobolli, with which he improved to 3-1 in the pair's ATP head-to-head series, Zverev also moved to 179 tour-level victories on clay, breaking his tie with Philipp Kohlschreiber for the most by a German man in the Open Era.

The world number three did not give Cobolli a look-in on the Caja Magica's centre court. With some impressive serving, Zverev was only truly challenged one time in the match, when it came to crossing the line.

At 5-4 up and serving for the second set, the Hamburg native suddenly found himself having to fend off two break points, something he did with aplomb. As if he had ice flowing through his veins, he produced two huge serves and finished off the job.

Looking to extend his perfect 3-0 record in Madrid semi-finals, Zverev will next face 21-year-old Belgian Alexander Blockx in Friday's evening session. Blockx, the World No. 69, earlier defeated defending champion Casper Ruud 6-4, 6-4 to reach his maiden Masters 1000 semifinal.

Blockx-Zverev will be a clash of contrasts; this is the first venture into the last four of an ATP tournament for Blockx, while Zverev will be playing in his seventh semi-final in the last eight Masters 1000s. The German has stayed true to form at the Mutua Madrid Open, a tournament he has already conquered twice (2018, 2021). He is now just two steps from the title once again.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Sarah B
Impressive stat about most clay wins by a German. Kohlschreiber was solid but Zverev has taken it to another level. Blockx could be a tricky opponent though - beating Ruud shows he's dangerous. Rooting for Zverev to complete the hat-trick in Madrid!
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Rohit P
Loving the dominance of Zverev on clay! As a tennis fan from India, it's great to see consistent performances. But let's be real - Blockx beating Ruud is a big upset. Zverev needs to stay focused, especially with those break points in the second set. Tennis in Madrid always delivers drama! 🎾🔥
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Michael C
Cold-blooded serving at 5-4 - that's champion mentality. Zverev's ability to raise his level under pressure is why he's won Madrid twice. Blockx will be a test but the experience gap is huge. Would love to see an Indian player reach these heights someday - we have the talent, just need the infrastructure.
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Vikram M
Honestly, while Zverev is impressive, I'm more excited about Blockx! Young players breaking through is what makes tennis exciting. Reminds me of when Nagal made his Grand Slam debut - that fighting spirit. Zverev should win this easily though. Madrid semis are going to be 🔥!
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Priya S
Zverev joining Federer, Nadal and Sinner is genuinely historic. As someone who follows tennis closely in India, I appreciate how consistent he's been across surfaces. But let's not forget - Blockx just beat the defending champion. This semi-final isn't a foregone conclusion. Can't wait for

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