Alexander Zverev loses in Shanghai semifinals, secures year-end world number one

Alexander Zverev has been eliminated from the ATP Shanghai Masters semifinals, losing to Alejandro Davidovich Fokina with a score of 7-5, 4-6, 3-6. Despite the loss, Zverev has already secured his position as the ATP world number one for the end of 2026, following a successful season that included titles at Roland Garros and the US Open.

Following the match, Zverev expressed significant physical and mental exhaustion, stating, “I am not a robot, I am a human – I get tired.” He noted that he has had only one day off since the US Open and is currently managing an ankle injury. Consequently, he has announced an urgent need for a break and has left his participation in the upcoming tournament in Vienna uncertain.

Alejandro Davidovich Fokina advanced to the final, where he will face fellow Spaniard Rafael Jodar. The tournament concludes with Davidovich Fokina seeking his first Masters 1000 title.