Alexander Zverev speaks on court after reaching the semifinals in Munich, ‘It was an incredible level’

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Alexander Zverev is through to the semifinals of the Munich Open for the fifth time in his career after defeating Francisco Cerundolo in three sets.

Cerundolo, who once had a 3-0 lead in the ATP head-to-head with Zverev, took the opener against him in Munich.

The world number two quickly turned things around, however, delivering a bagel in the second to force a decider.

A strong third set performance saw Zverev come out on top, 5-7, 6-0, 6-2 to continue his title defence in front of a home crowd.

He won the title for the third time last year and for the first time since 2018, beating Ben Shelton in the final.

Alexander Zverev reacts after beating Francisco Cerundolo

Speaking in his on-court 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 clash with Flavio Cobolli

In the Munich Open semifinals, Zverev will take on fourth seed Flavio Cobolli, who has yet to drop a set throughout the tournament.

Zverev has faced Cobolli twice before on the ATP Tour, and came out on top on both occasions, winning at Roland Garros in 2025 and in Halle later that year.

Previewing their third career meeting, Zverev said: “Yeah, looking forward to it. Of course, it’s going to be another tough challenge.

“But again, if I continue playing this level, I have to trust myself. I look forward to it tomorrow.”

Zverev is searching for his 25th ATP title at the Munich Open, and his first of the 2026 season.