Cerúndolo, after reaching quarterfinals in Madrid: "This year I am playing better and I feel more comfortable and confident"

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Fran Cerúndolo feels great in the city of Madrid. The Argentine repeated last year's feat by reaching the quarterfinals of the Mutua Madrid Open again, defeating Alexander Zverev (7-5, 6-3) who continues to struggle. However, Cerúndolo's success is no coincidence; he has been one of the most consistent players in 2025, reaching the quarterfinals in Madrid, Indian Wells, and Miami, as well as semifinals in the ATP 500 in Munich, the ATP 250 in Santiago, and the final in the ATP 500 in Buenos Aires.

As a result, his name emerges strongly in a field without a clear favorite at the Caja Mágica. But he prefers to take it one match at a time; next up is another standout of the season: Jakub Mensik. Cerúndolo spoke about Mensik, his third victory over Zverev, and the court conditions during a press conference.

New Victory over Zverev

"Today I played a great match. I know Zverev likes to play long points, and beating him here last year was already important. Doing it again this year is even more meritorious. Moreover, it was tough to play today due to the windy conditions, but I still managed to play a great match."

Quarterfinals Repeat in the Spanish Capital

"I really like the atmosphere in Madrid, it's a beautiful city, and I enjoy myself both on and off the court. From a tennis perspective, each year I feel better. My first few years here were a disaster, but last year, we turned it around, and this year we're back in the quarterfinals. I'm playing better than last year, feeling more comfortable and confident."

Difference in Conditions at the Caja Mágica

"The key has been understanding that the ball bounces and flies more here, and knowing how to control it. I like to hit the ball hard, but that's not always possible here. You have to know how to play in these conditions with such altitude and understand that some players adapt better. I'm feeling better day by day."

Not Seeing Himself as Favorite Against Mensik or for Winning the Tournament

"Men's tennis is very open nowadays, with many good players. There could be a favorite like Zverev, who has won here and is the number two in the world, but many players are in good form. Mensik won in Miami and is a powerful player with a strong serve. It's going to be a tough match. I don't see myself as a favorite, but I know I can win. The field is wide open, with some players more confident than others, but the level is high among all remaining players."

Differences Between the Arantxa Sánchez and Manolo Santana Courts

"The main difference I notice between the Arantxa Sánchez and Manolo Santana courts is the wind in the latter. The central court is much larger and more open, creating swirling winds at times. However, I don't really mind which court I play on; I try to focus on my game and play the best tennis I can."

Connection with Pablo Cuevas

"It's great to have a coach like Pablo Cuevas, who recently retired and brings a different perspective as a former player who faced all these opponents. His view complements that of my other coach very well."

The Difficulty of Winning Without Playing Well

"It's really tough. The top champions, the best players, have that ability. You can play ten matches, even a whole year, displaying incredible tennis where you feel the ball amazingly well. In other matches, you may play better or worse, or have mixed performances. But the champions always find a way to persevere mentally. I try to do my best, not get upset when I'm not playing well, and find an incredible solution, maintaining composure. I believe I'm handling it much better in that aspect," asserts Cerúndolo, hinting that he should be considered for the upcoming clay tournaments despite not wanting to talk about favoritism.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Cerúndolo, tras repetir cuartos en Madrid: "Este año estoy jugando mejor y me siento más cómodo y confiado"