An error-strewn victory over Robin Haase earlier on in the week at the ATP Swiss Indoors Basel notched up 50 match wins of the season for Germany’s Alexander Zverev. He followed this up by a consistent win 51 of the season against Popyrin in the 2nd round. Zverev is improving, especially in the double fault area–five in his first game and just one in his last match. He goes into the quarterfinals against an improving Roberto Bautista-Agut of Spain.
Zverev Struggling for Form Since US Open Shock Defeat to Philipp Kohlschreiber
The World #5, Zverev has had a steady year, but by his standards still disappointing in Slams. This includes being ousted at Flushing Meadows by Kohlschreiber in Round 3. That said, three titles including in Madrid (clay) and Washington (hard court) has shown up some ripping form. Yet, the story of his season is disappointing Slams, again.
Alexander Zverev is Looking to Gain Momentum Going into ATP Finals
Since his US Open defeat, Zverev has looked a tad laboured. Being stunned by Tunisia’s Malek Jazri in the China Open is probably the most disappointing result. Although, only picking up three games against Novak Djokovic in the semis in Shanghai leaves Zverev with room for improvement heading into the ATP Finals in London. He needs to make waves in this event to show that he can produce consistently against the best in the world.
Alexander Zverev vs Roberto Bautsta-Agut: The Previous matches
Zverev leads the head-to-head 3-2, incorporating a recent straight sets victory in Beijing. However, the pair have never met on indoor hard courts and Bautista-Agut is raising his game of late, after a poor season, really.
Brotherly Love Sends Zverevs in Doubles Semis
Alexander Zverev has also partnered his brother Mischa in the doubles and they are through to the semis. Alexander’s serving in the quarters against accomplished pairing of Rojer and Tecau was the best it’s been since Washington. This is also facilitating his match sharpness- Alexander Zverev’s singles game definitely benefits when he plays doubles also.
Alexander Zverev v Roberto Bautsta-Agut Prediction: It will be a grinding match, but Zverev’s slicker serve should see him though.
