Alexander Zverev survived a scare from Ben Shelton before winning 3-6, 7-6(3), 7-5 to advance to the semi-final of the 2024 Cincinnati Open.
Zverev rallied back to take the second and third sets after losing the first set in the quarterfinal clash on Saturday amidst multiple rain delays.
The German, as reported by ATP Tours, who withstood an attacking display from the American and raised his level when required to clinch victory, described the match as difficult.
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“It was very difficult in the windy conditions when you don’t have any rhythm, and when someone’s serving like he does, it’s really tough to get into the games,” Zverev said.
“The first set and a half I had no idea what I was doing, so I’m very happy I got there in the end.
“To be interrupted twice by rain in the third set, once at 3-4 and once at 4-5, with me serving both times, that isn’t easy. You want to be in a rhythm and that takes you out of your comfort zone.”
After wasting his first seven breakpoint opportunities, Zverev had to wait until the second resumption of play from rain and 5-all in the decider to break Shelton.
Trying to serve out the match in the following game, Zverev threw in two double faults to go down a breakpoint before winning the final three points of the match.
Tennis star Alexander Zverev will face a tough test against world number one Jannik Sinner in the semifinals of the 2024 Cincinnati Open on Monday, August 19, 2024.
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