NEW DELHI: World number four Alexander Zverev advanced to the French Open third round with a commanding 7-6 (4) 6-2 6-2 victory over experienced Belgian David Goffin on Thursday.
The German, who had previously ousted 14-time champion Rafael Nadal in the opening round, faced a tough challenge in the first-set tiebreak but ultimately prevailed. Zverev then broke early in the second set, gaining momentum.
Former quarter-finalist Goffin came close to breaking Zverev's serve in the fourth game, but the German held firm, employing a varied game plan to maintain control and close out the match, securing his place in the next round.
"I was happy that I ran away with it but also happy that I played well," said Zverev, who suffered a season-ending ankle injury in the 2022 French Open semi-finals.
Zverev will next face either Italian Luciano Darderi or Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor in the third round.
(With Reuters inputs)
