Davidovich Fokina Stuns Zverev to Reach Shanghai Masters Final

Posted : 17 October 2026

Alejandro Davidovich Fokina produced an impressive comeback to defeat top seed Alexander Zverev and book his place in the Shanghai Masters final on Saturday. The Spanish player recovered from losing the opening set to claim a 5-7, 6-4, 6-3 victory in a hard-fought semifinal.

Ranked 26th in the world, Davidovich Fokina displayed determination, quick returns and clever drop shots to overcome the German, who struggled with fatigue and physical discomfort during the contest. The Spaniard will face either Daniil Medvedev or fellow countryman Rafael Jodar in Sunday's final.

Despite a nervous start, Davidovich Fokina remained committed to his game and continued fighting for every point. His victory extended his winning streak in China to nine matches following his title triumph at the Chengdu ATP 250 tournament.

Zverev, meanwhile, admitted that fatigue had affected his performance. The German said he had arrived in Shanghai carrying both tiredness and a minor injury, with his ankle causing some discomfort during the tournament. He added that taking a break was likely necessary before deciding how to approach the upcoming Vienna tournament, which begins on October 24.

Zverev started strongly, winning a closely contested opening set after securing a crucial break at 6-5 before serving out the set with an ace. The pair exchanged long rallies, with Davidovich Fokina earning recognition from his opponent for an impressive lob during the opening exchanges.

The match shifted in the second set as the Spaniard increased the pressure and began finding more opportunities to attack. After missing an earlier break chance, Davidovich Fokina eventually levelled the contest at one set apiece, taking advantage of Zverev's growing physical difficulties.

Davidovich Fokina carried that momentum into the deciding set, racing into a 3-0 lead and maintaining his aggressive approach. Zverev saved two match points, but the German could not prevent the Spaniard from completing the comeback after two hours and six minutes.

The victory sends Davidovich Fokina into his second ATP Masters 1000 final, having previously reached the championship match in Monte Carlo in 2022. He will now seek the biggest title of his career when he faces Medvedev or Jodar on Sunday.

Davidovich Fokina Stuns Zverev to Reach Shanghai Masters Final

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