If the match was going to be fierce, the 25-year-old German player had to forfeit after injuring his ankle. The Mallorcan is heading to the final for what could be his last tournament on Parisian clay.
All eyes were on Rafael Nadal’s left foot, suffering from a chronic and incurable disease, and yet it was Alexander Zverev’s right ankle that cracked. While court Philippe-Chatrier expected to experience a marathon Roland-Garros semi-final after two thrilling sets (7-6, 6-6), the German was injured at the end of the race in the second tie -break of the match, falling heavily and letting out moans of pain.
The 25-year-old was wheeled off the court in a wheelchair, as Rafael Nadal looked on apologetically. At 36, the Spaniard therefore returns for yet another final at Roland-Garros with a view to a 14th victory on Parisian clay.
More information to come…