Alexander Zverev said it was a special moment to complete his collection of ATP Masters 1000 semi-final appearances at Indian Wells Masters, joining an elite group that includes former world number ones Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Murray.

The German defeated Arthur Fils 6–2, 6–3 on Thursday, becoming only the fifth player in history to reach the semi-finals at all nine Masters tournaments, which rank just below the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments in importance.

“It’s very special to be one of only five players ever to achieve this. It’s something I’m extremely proud of and a great milestone in my career,” Zverev told reporters.

Zverev, who is aiming for his eighth Masters title, will next face world number two Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals as he looks for his first win over the Italian since 2023. Sinner has won their last five encounters and leads their overall head-to-head record 6–4.

“I think most of our matches have been very close. Even the last few were tight, except the one in Paris where I was injured,” Zverev said, referring to his loss to Sinner at last year’s Paris Masters.

“It’s always a challenge. Over the past two years he has been one of the best players in the world. He and Carlos Alcaraz have won all the Grand Slams and major tournaments.

“Of course it’s a challenge, but it’s one I’m really looking forward to.”