"I haven’t yet. So that is way more important than just match wins." – Alexander Zverev surpasses Boris Becker’s Australian Open record and advances to the semi-finals

Alexander Zverev made history at this year’s Australian Open, surpassing the legendary Boris Becker for the most victories by a German male player in the tournament. While breaking records is always a proud moment, Zverev has his sights set on a much greater prize—his first Grand Slam title.

After his quarter-final victory over Tommy Paul, the second seed will be eager to extend his winning streak and prove he can compete with the best. As one of the most formidable players on the tour, Zverev has shown he is capable of challenging any opponent in the later rounds of a Grand Slam.

Zverev books his place in the semi-finals

Zverev faced a difficult opponent in the quarter-final—America’s Tommy Paul, a tenacious competitor known for his aggressive play. The match was anything but straightforward, going to four sets, but the German ultimately prevailed with a 7-6(1), 7-6(0), 2-6, 6-1 victory.

The first set was tightly contested, with Paul saving a set point, but Zverev stepped up in the tie-break, losing just one point to take the lead. In the second set, Paul broke early and looked in control, but Zverev fought back, forcing another tie-break, where he dominated again.

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Paul responded emphatically in the third set, winning comfortably to force a fourth, but Zverev quickly regained control, producing his best tennis to close out the match.

With the victory, Zverev advances to the Australian Open semi-finals, where he will face a daunting challenge against either Novak Djokovic or Carlos Alcaraz.

Reflecting on the match, Zverev admitted he was surprised at how he secured the win:

"i somehow won the first set and then somehow won the second set," a somewhat bemused Zverev reflected post-match.

"the fourth set was the best i've played, and i'm extremely happy to be back in the semis."

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Record broken

Boris Becker

Zverev’s win over Paul marked his 30th career victory at the Australian Open, breaking Boris Becker’s record for the most wins by a German male player in the tournament’s history.

Despite the milestone, Zverev remains focused on the bigger picture—lifting his first Grand Slam trophy. His determination and ambition set him apart, and he is well aware that match wins alone are not the ultimate goal.

When informed of his record-breaking achievement, Zverev was quick to acknowledge Becker’s greater legacy:

"i think the big difference, the thing that everybody looks at, is boris becker lifted this trophy twice," Zverev said, his tone reflecting his deep respect for the tennis great.

"i haven’t yet. so that is way more important than just match wins."

"of course, i'm happy to be on that list, and i’m happy to be in that conversation of greats in german tennis. but lifting the trophy is what is on my mind."

Can Zverev claim his first grand slam

Zverev has been one of the most consistent performers on the ATP Tour, but a Grand Slam title has so far eluded him. He has reached multiple semi-finals and finals, yet he is still searching for that breakthrough moment.

With Djokovic and Alcaraz still in contention, the path to the title will be far from easy. However, Zverev’s form, confidence, and ability to step up in big moments could give him the edge he needs to make history.

The next few days will be crucial—can Zverev finally secure his maiden Grand Slam title and cement his place among the greats of German tennis?

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