Rafael Nadal (L) during an earlier encounter against Alexander Zverev (R) (Getty)
13-time champion Rafael Nadal will face World No.3 Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals of the Roland Garros
Rafael Nadal had words of praise for his opponent, Alexander Zverev ahead of their semi-final clash in Paris. Nadal is aiming for a record 22nd Grand Slam while Zverev is gunning for his maiden Grand Slam title. The two players will be taking on each other at the Philippe-Chatrier later this evening.
“I am excited to win the semi-finals of course. It will be a big day as another big challenge is coming. The first thing I need to do is play very well. Alexander Zverev is a great player and I can say one of the best in the world. So for me to keep my chances high and to go through I have to play with determination from the beginning to the end”, said Nadal, ahead of the much-awaited semi-final clash.
Rafael Nadal is coming into this match, high on confidence after a dominating 6-2, 4-6, 6-2, 7-6 win against defending champion, Novak Djokovic. Meanwhile, Zverev pulled off a thoroughly impressive 6-4, 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 victory against Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals to set up a semi-final clash against Nadal.
The oldest champion of the French was Elizabeth Ryan, who won the 1934 women’s doubles with Simone Mathieu (France) at 42 years 88 days. The oldest singles champion was Andrés Gimeno (Spain) in 1972 at 34 years 301 days. Rafael Nadal, who is set to turn 36 tomorrow (3rd June), could very well become the oldest ever singles champion at French Open if he wins the title this year.
Rafael Nadal will be taking on Alexander Zverev later this evening in the semi-final. Nadal has been in sublime touch in the tournament but the third seed, Zverev will certainly be a tricky opposition.
If Nadal triumphs in Paris, he will become the oldest men’s champion at the Roland Garros and the fourth oldest winner of a Grand Slam. Only two players have won a Grand Slam aged 36 or older: Roger Federer and Ken Rosewell.
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