Germany's Alexander Zverev reached the French Open final on Friday after defeating 20-year-old 26th seed Jakub Mensik in four sets, 7-5, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3. The second seed and title favorite moved within one win of his elusive first Grand Slam title, marking the fourth major final of his career. Following the match, Mensik compared playing Zverev to "hitting a wall."
Zverev entered the semi-final with mounting expectations to finally secure a maiden Grand Slam crown. Shock exits in the tournament had opened up the draw, allowing the German to move within touching distance of the trophy.
Zverev will face Flavio Cobolli in the final this Sunday. The matchup carries a personal twist, as their friendship grew at the Laver Cup and was further deepened by the support Zverev received from Cobolli's father during difficult moments on tour.