Top seed Zverev bundled out by Paul in rain-hit Cincinnati upset

CINCINNATI, Aug 20 — Tommy Paul achieved an upset victory over top seed Alexander Zverev in a rain-soaked match at the Cincinnati Masters. The German champion, who was the French Open winner, faced a challenging encounter as the tournament was interrupted for 90 minutes due to rain. The match resumed with two more five-minute pauses as moisture was removed from the court.

In the second set tiebreaker, Zverev had the chance to clinch the victory, but he missed a net volley. Zverev took control in the deciding set, breaking Paul's serve twice before Paul managed to take the lead. Paul served out the match triumphantly, marking his third win over Zverev in their last four meetings. Paul expressed surprise at his performance, crediting his efforts and the assistance from errors made by Zverev.

Zverev next faces French Open runner-up Flavio Cobolli, who made a remarkable comeback against Rafael Jodar, winning 4-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-3. Cobolli has secured three straight quarter-final appearances at Masters-level tournaments. Thiago Tirante continued his unexpected journey at the event, defeating Jakub Mensik 5-7, 6-4, 6-4, advancing to his first Masters quarter-final.

Defending women's champion Iga Swiatek reached her fourth consecutive quarter-final in Cincinnati, defeating French player Diane Parry 6-3, 6-3. Swiatek will face Elena Rybakina for a rematch of their Toronto final, where Rybakina had previously defeated Swiatek. In the women's draw, Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine overcame Mirra Andreeva 4-6, 6-0, 6-2, while Linda Noskova of Sweden lost to Amanda Anisimova 6-1, 6-4.

Jessica Pegula of the United States is set to face Jessica Pegula after her victory over Sorana Cirstea 6-2, 4-6, 7-5.