June 5, 2025: Novak Djokovic silenced doubters once again at Roland Garros on Wednesday night, defeating third seed Alexander Zverev in a physically demanding four-set quarter-final to advance to the French Open semi-finals. The 38-year-old champion prevailed 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 in a thrilling night session on Court Philippe Chatrier, proving that age is just a number when greatness is in question.
With the victory, Djokovic sets up a high-stakes semi-final clash against world No. 1 Jannik Sinner — a showdown that could bring him a step closer to a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.
“A Testament to Myself and Others”
Reflecting on the match, Djokovic called the win “a testament” to his ongoing ability to compete at the top level, especially against younger and higher-ranked players.
“It was an amazing match,” he said post-match. “Obviously, beating one of the best players in the world on one of the biggest stages is something I work for. At this age, I still push myself daily for these moments.”
The match saw Djokovic drop his first set of the tournament before storming back with masterful control, surgical drop shots, and the kind of physical and mental resilience that has defined his career.
Momentum Shift
Zverev came out strong, breaking Djokovic early and claiming the first set. But Djokovic answered in style — breaking Zverev at 3-1 in the second, using intelligent placement and shot variation to wrest control of the match.
In the third and fourth sets, Djokovic’s return game and court coverage proved too much for Zverev, whose confidence visibly waned. A standout moment came in the fourth set, when Djokovic saved break point with a blistering cross-court forehand that brought the Chatrier crowd to its feet.
He sealed the win on his fifth match point, earning his 101st French Open match win — an astonishing feat that further cements his legacy on clay.
Next: A Blockbuster Clash with Sinner
Looking ahead, Djokovic acknowledged the massive challenge that awaits in Jannik Sinner, who dispatched Alexander Bublik in straight sets earlier in the day.
“Jannik is in tremendous form, and he’s been the best player for the last couple of years,” Djokovic said. “It’s the semi-finals of a Grand Slam against the No. 1 in the world — there’s no bigger occasion for me. I’ll need to step it up.”
Zverev: ‘He’s Still One of the Best’
Despite the defeat, Zverev offered nothing but respect for Djokovic’s performance.
“At the moment, he’s a bit underrated, to be honest,” Zverev said. “Forget the age. He’s beaten Carlos [Alcaraz] at the Australian Open and now me here. For any player, those are great results.”
Zverev’s loss ends a rocky clay-court season that saw early exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid, and a quarter-final finish in Rome.
As Djokovic marches into yet another Grand Slam semi-final, one thing is clear — the legend is not done yet.