World No. 3 Alexander Zverev is making waves at the French Open 2025, storming into the fourth round with a commanding win over Flavio Cobolli on May 31. Despite a turbulent preparation marked by illness, a lightning-struck flight, and a Hamburg Open upset, the German star’s quest for his maiden Grand Slam title at Roland Garros has fans and analysts buzzing. His consistent deep runs in Paris keep the spotlight firmly on him.
Strong Showing at Roland Garros
Zverev advanced to the last 16 with a straight-sets victory over Italy’s Flavio Cobolli, winning 6-4, 7-6(5), 6-2 on May 31. The match, marked by a tense second-set tiebreaker, showcased Zverev’s resilience against Cobolli’s scrappy defense. This win marks his eighth consecutive year reaching the French Open fourth round, reinforcing his clay-court prowess.[](https://www.news9live.com/sports/tennis/french-open-2025-alexander-zverev-powers-past-flavio-cobolli-to-reach-last-16-2861114)
Overcoming Early Challenges
In the second round, Zverev faced a scare, dropping the first set to Dutchman Jesper De Jong before rallying to win 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-3. De Jong’s drop-shot barrage tested Zverev, but the German adapted, securing crucial breaks to advance. His first-round win over American teenager Learner Tien (6-3, 6-3, 6-4) was more straightforward, setting a strong tone.[](https://www.reuters.com/sports/tennis/zverev-survives-de-jong-drop-shot-bonanza-advance-2025-05-29/)[](https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/tennis/alexander-zverev-vs-jesper-de-jong-live-streaming-french-open-2025-second-round-when-where-to-watch)
Rocky Road to Paris
Zverev’s French Open campaign nearly derailed before it began. On May 23, his flight to Paris was struck by lightning, forcing a return to Germany. He also battled illness during a shock loss to Alexandre Muller (6-3, 4-6, 7-6) at the Hamburg Open, where he revealed vomiting 37 times and running a high fever. Despite these setbacks, Zverev remains focused.[](https://sportstar.thehindu.com/tennis/zverev-flight-hit-by-lightning-hamburg-to-paris-emergency-landing-french-open-arrival-delayed/article69611976.ece)[](https://x.com/Tiempodetenis1/status/1925322576944865496)
Chasing Grand Slam Glory
At 28, Zverev is still seeking his first Grand Slam title, having lost finals at the 2020 US Open, 2024 French Open, and 2025 Australian Open. His consistent semi-final appearances at Roland Garros over the past four years make him a favorite, though he humbly acknowledges he’s no Djokovic or Nadal. His next opponent is either Holger Rune or Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.[](https://www.reuters.com/sports/tennis/zverev-cruises-into-french-open-round-two-2025-05-27/)
Off-Court Spotlight
Zverev’s personal life also draws attention. His attendance at the Monaco E-Prix on May 4 alongside stars like Idris Elba kept him in the headlines. However, past domestic abuse allegations, cleared in 2023 due to insufficient evidence, continue to spark occasional debate among fans on X.[](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/formula-e/monaco-e-prix-round-6-turns-starry-affair-with-idris-elba-tom-felton-alexander-zverev-in-attendance/articleshow/120858190.cms)[](https://x.com/josemorgado/status/1925234344295035334)
Road Ahead at Roland Garros
Zverev’s form suggests he could go deep at Roland Garros 2025, with his adaptability on clay a key asset. As he eyes a semi-final berth, fans wonder if this is the year he breaks his Grand Slam duck. A potential clash with top seeds like Sinner or Alcaraz looms, promising thrilling battles.
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