Alexander Zverev Takes On Felix Auger-Aliassime in ATP Finals Match
Introduction
The occupational hazards of group stage tennis typically lead to by this stage of the ATP Finals fans frequently find themselves confused, searching around for a calculator and trying to work out the mind-boggling permutations of qualification. However tonight’s match between Alexander Zverev and Auger-Aliassime, mercifully, is simple. This is a winner-takes-all affair: the victor sets up a semi-final battle against Alcaraz at this year-end tournament; the unsuccessful competitor is eliminated.
Zverev is the favourite for this: the third-ranked player is the more accomplished player, has previously won at this event on two prior occasions and leads their head-to-head 6-3, winning both the games they've played on an covered hard surface.
However … this particular court on which Auger-Aliassime has claimed most of his championships, he’s riding a high after his impressive recovery against Shelton on Wednesday and he took out Zverev in the US Championships early stage in late summer. Furthermore, the playing speed is higher in Turin than at the US Open venue, which is even more beneficial in AA’s favor.
Should Zverev be cautious, like he was against Sinner, and Felix aggressively challenges the German with his stinging serves and bold strategy, there is a strong chance the North American athlete – the one-time phenom who was earlier slated in front of the Spanish and Italian stars to succeed the tennis icons – who earns the questionable privilege of playing against the top-ranked player tomorrow.
Play begins: at about 8.30pm local time, 7:30 PM in the UK.
