Alexander Zverev reaches ATP milestone last matched by Andy Murray in 2015
Photo by WILLIAM WEST / AFP via Getty Images Alexander Zverev’s Miami Open campaign has been quietly efficient, and he continued that form with a straight-sets win over Francisco Cerundolo. Most of the spotlight has been on Jannik Sinner, but Zverev has reached the semi-finals with minimal fuss, losing just one set along the way. Zverev will now face Sinner next, looking to snap a run of four consecutive defeats against the world number two.
Zverev achieved a rare milestone with his latest win, becoming the first player since Andy Murray over a decade ago to reach the Miami Open semi-finals after previously making it to two finals without winning the title. The German lost in both 2018 and 2023 finals and is still seeking his first trophy in Miami. In addition, this result marks Zverev’s fifth appearance in an ATP 1000 semi-final without dropping more than one set before reaching that stage.
Only Novak Djokovic (17) and Roger Federer (6) have managed that feat more often among active players. Alexander Zverev matches Andy Murray record in Miami Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images for Laver Cup Zverev has had a steady presence on the ATP Tour, and his name is often linked to records set by some of the biggest names in tennis like Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Murray. The German’s run to the Miami Open semi-finals marks his 25th appearance at that stage in a Masters event, a number reached most recently by Andy Murray back in 2015.
Zverev has become the first player born after 1990 to hit this milestone, adding another layer to his already impressive career. While he hasn’t always been front and centre like those who followed the ‘Big Four,’ Zverev has built a career marked by consistent high-level play and notable milestones. Zverev’s serving form could be key in Miami semi-final against Sinner Going into the semi-final, Zverev will be considered the underdog against Sinner, mainly due to their recent head-to-head history.
The German has dropped his last six meetings with Sinner, including a straight sets defeat at Indian Wells earlier this month. Even so, Zverev’s serve has looked sharp throughout the tournament and could play a crucial role if he’s to end that losing streak. So far in Miami, Zverev hasn’t been broken in three of his four matches, with Marin Cilic the only player to take a set from him.