Most difficult year of my life – Alexander Zverev makes French Open semis again

The German left Philippe Chatrier in a wheelchair 12 months ago after being forced to retire during a compelling last-four clash with Rafael Nadal.

Zverev had struggled since returning to the tour in January but has buried his demons on the Parisian clay and fought for three hours and 22 minutes to make it past surprise package Tomas Etcheverry 6-4 3-6 6-3 6-4.

"That was the most difficult year of my life," he said.

"I love tennis with all my heart. I'm so happy to be back at this stage, I'm so happy to be able to play for a Roland Garros final again. I can't be happier."

Argentinian Etcheverry, 23, did himself huge credit in the biggest match of his career, wowing the Philippe Chatrier crowd with thumping winners and fighting to the end.

But it was Zverev who was just the stronger in the big moments, saving six of the nine break points he faced to make it to the last four here for the third year in a row.

Zverev said of his opponent: "He's playing incredible tennis, he reminds me a lot of (Juan Martin) Del Potro, the way he hits his forehand especially. If he continues playing like this he's going in the quarter-finals here a lot more often for sure and I think he can be top 10.

"I just had to remember that I have a pair of balls that I can use. I hope, I think I deserved to win. I'm just happy to be through."