Zverev Storms Back after Early Setback to Set Up Exciting Clash with Paul

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Alexander Zverev faced his first setback of Australian Open 2025 on Sunday, but he didn't let it slow him down as he outlasted Ugo Humbert on a scorching Melbourne evening.

MORE: All the scores from Day 8 at AO 2025

In his gritty 6-1, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 win over Humbert at John Cain Arena, Zverev secured his fourth quarterfinal at the Australian Open, matching the record held by Boris Becker.

The second seed, however, is eyeing an even bigger goal – claiming his first Grand Slam title.

His next opponent will be AO 2023 semifinalist Tommy Paul of the US – who has a 2-0 advantage over Zverev.

MORE: AO 2025 men's singles draw

Speaking after his win, Zverev said, 'I've got to play my best, play the way I've played the first week, hopefully a little better.'

Zverev had an earlier encounter with Humbert in the Paris Masters final in November, where he dominated the Frenchman 6-1, 6-0.

Zverev was broken and dropped the second set before making an impressive comeback to win the match.

This time, Zverev was broken and dropped the third set, but he managed to hold his serve and take control by breaking Humbert immediately.

Zverev let out a loud roar after crushing a backhand return winner off Humbert's serve to earn a double break and realistically seal the match.

Zverev was thrilled to reach the quarterfinals, saying, 'I'm extremely happy to be in the quarterfinals and only losing one set. The set I lost, my opponent played incredible, and I didn't have a lot of chances of winning it.'

Paul encountered no difficulties in his match earlier in the day at Margaret Court Arena, needing an hour and 27 minutes to dispatch Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 6-1, 6-1, 6-1.

Paul claimed the opening set in a mere 22 minutes, showing his dominance over his Spanish opponent.

Even if Paul exits against Zverev, he's on track to make his top-10 debut when the next rankings are released.

Tennis Australia acknowledges that the Australian Open is held on Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country, and extends its respects to Elders past and present and to all First Nations People.

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