Alexander Zverev vs Casper Ruud Predictions, Picks | French Open Semifinal Preview

Zverev vs Ruud Odds

While the focus from the national media will be on Carlos Alcaraz versus Jannik Sinner, the other Roland Garros semifinal between Alexander Zverev and Casper Ruud is a near pick'em.

The two have won a combined three titles this season on the ATP Tour but are both searching for their elusive first career Grand Slam championship.

Who will get one step closer to earning the trophy in Paris? Dive in below for Zverev vs Ruud predictions and picks, including a French Open semifinal preview.

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Zverev Ready For Stern Test

Despite dealing with a criminal trial in Berlin over physical abuse of an ex-girlfriend, Zverev was allowed to play in the French Open, and he hasn't let the allegations impact his form on the court.

Zverev's draw hasn't been easy, to say the least.

Rafael Nadal isn't the Rafa of old, but it's still a more challenging match mentally than any top-ranked player had in the opening round.

Zverev also played two straight five-setters (Tallon Griekspoor, Holger Rune) before dispatching a red-hot Alex de Minaur in straight sets.

Having a day off after playing over 10 hours in three matches is good news for the German, but that may not be enough against a fresh Ruud.

Ruud Familiar With This Spot

There's no denying that Zverev is a strong clay-court player, but let's not forget about Ruud, who seemingly gets very little attention despite his consistency.

Novak Djokovic's withdrawal helped him reach this point; however, Ruud has produced an excellent season on the dirt. He won in Geneva and Barcelona, reached the final in Monte-Carlo and has played just one five-setter in Paris.

Most importantly, Ruud is comfortable and experienced on this surface, as he's seeking his third straight final at the French Open.

In fact, only three players have done that in this decade (and I'm sure you can guess who they are).

Ruud didn't play his best tennis against Taylor Fritz in the quarters — converting just 59% of his first serves and going 6-of-27 on break points — but he still was able to overcome in the American in four sets.

Now the Norwegian is well-rested, having not played a single match since Monday.

Zverev vs Ruud Prediction

There's two things working for Ruud heading into this match: rest and history.

Like I mentioned above, because of Djokovic's knee injury, Ruud hasn't played since Monday.

Normally, I'd be hesitant to say that's a good thing — you want to find a good balance between too much tennis and nearly a full work week off — but in this case, Ruud is highly familiar with this surface and is playing in a Grand Slam semifinal. Motivation isn't an issue, and that's especially the case as he chases his first ever major title without the "Big Three" being in the way.

Meanwhile, Zverev is eventually due to wear down. He's played 10+ hours of tennis this week, and Ruud having a clear and obvious plan to attack the German (press his forehand wing) doesn't help matters.

Also, even though the series between Zverev and Ruud is tied at two apiece, their only meeting on clay (2023 in the Roland Garros semifinals) was an easy victory for the Norwegian.

While Zverev is playing much better and more confident this season with more time to recover from his serious injury, Ruud is still a step above the German at this event and on this surface.

Prediction: Casper Ruud ML (+102)