Madrid
Zverev sinks Cobolli, Blockx upsets Ruud; Relive Madrid Day 9 video highlights
Look back at the best moments from Thursday in Madrid
April 30, 2026
Mutua Madrid Open
Alexander Zverev will face Alexander Blockx in the semi-finals in Madrid.
By ATP Staff
Alexander Zverev advanced to the last four at the Mutua Madrid Open on Thursday when he defeated Flavio Cobolli. Earlier in the day, Alexander Blockx eased past defending champion Casper Ruud.
ATPTour.com looks back at the biggest Thursday stories through video.
Two-time champion Zverev faced Cobolli in the second quarter-final of the day. The World No. 3 dictated play from the outset and didn’t give Cobolli many chances to find his rhythm. This forehand stunner helped Zverev build on an early lead in the opening set.
The German eventually cruised to a 6-1, 6-4 victory in 90 minutes. With the triumph, Zverev became just the fourth man to reach the semi-finals at each of the first four ATP Masters 1000 events of the season since the series began in 1990, joining Roger Federer (2006), Rafael Nadal (2010, 2011) and Jannik Sinner (2026). Zverev will next face Alexander Blockx.
Earlier in the day, 21-year-old Blockx upset defending champion Casper Ruud 6-4, 6-4 to advance to the biggest semi-final of his career.
Competing in his first Masters 1000 quarter-final, Blockx showed few nerves, producing a composed and assured performance throughout. The Belgian also delivered many thrilling moments on the court, including this stunning dropper to clinch a break in the first set.
