Alexander Zverev Takes On Felix Auger-Aliassime in ATP Finals Showdown
Overview
The occupational hazards of tournament pool play often result in at this point of the ATP World Tour Finals we’re often left scratching our heads, searching around for a mathematical tool and striving to determine the mind-boggling qualification scenarios. But this evening's contest between Zverev and Felix Auger-Aliassime, mercifully, is simple. This is a winner-takes-all affair: the winner sets up a semi-final matchup against Carlos Alcaraz at this championship finale; the unsuccessful competitor goes home.
Zverev is the predicted winner for this: the world No 3 is the more experienced competitor, has been the champion at this tournament twice before and is ahead in their direct encounters six matches to three, winning both their past encounters on an enclosed hard court.
Yet … this type of playing field on which the Canadian has won most of his championships, he is in great form after his remarkable turnaround against Shelton on recently and he defeated the German in the US Open third round in late summer. Furthermore, the court pace is quicker in the host city than at Flushing Meadows, which is even more beneficial in AA’s benefit.
If Zverev holds back, as he did against the Italian, and the Canadian presses the German with his effective service game and fearless play, it could well be the young Canadian – the earlier standout who was once in line ahead of the younger champions to succeed the Big Three – who secures the questionable privilege of playing against the global leader the next day.
Play begins: at around 20:30 in the host city, 7.30pm GMT.
