This will be a high-stakes encounter, as Alexander Zverev meets Tallon Griekspoor in the Round of 32 at the ATP Masters 1000 Paris. Both opponents have had their share of ups and downs lately, which may make this quite an unpredictable encounter. It will be interesting to see the contrast in playing styles and psyches of third-ranked globally, Alexander Zverev, and current world number 39, Tallon Griekspoor, on the hard indoor courts in the French capital. Zverev leads their head-to-head 5-1, having won the last four, including a three-setter this autumn in Shanghai. While Zverev tries to win some much-needed confidence after his meltdown against Lorenzo Musetti, Griekspoor is seeking to build from his solid 2-0 win over Luciano Darderi.
It's five in a row against Griekspoor for Zverev, who last took him out in the Shanghai Masters. The variation in shot-making from Griekspoor was not enough to break the consistency of Zverev.
The last time they met was at the ATP Shanghai, where he won in three sets. At that match, Griekspoor did push Zverev hard in the first set but could not keep it going.
Claim Welcome BonusAlexander Zverev
Ranked #3, Zverev has had a bit of an inconsistent season so far. He now stands at an even 5-5 in his last ten matches and was beaten, after a good fight, in three grueling sets to Musetti in his last outing. In terms of game style, Zverev is ultra-dependent on strong baseline play, a powerful first serve, and imposing backhand that can flip defense into attack.
Zverev will most likely count on his consistent serve and the way he can dominate the baseline. With his powerful backhand and deep returns, he has some critical assets against Griekspoor, who tends to struggle with being pushed back. His patience and ability to dictate from the baseline should help him create openings.
Tallon Griekspoor
Coming in with a little better momentum, currently ranked 39th, Griekspoor takes six of his last ten matches. The straight-sets win over Darderi did show he can dictate proceedings against players below him in the standings, but he'll face a significant step up both technically and mentally in Zverev.
It means that the road to success for Griekspoor is to attack early and try to take control in shorter rallies. His recent form has been pretty aggressive, especially on serve, where he will be looking to bypass Zverev's returns. A good serve with the ability to push onto the German's forehand could very well break his rhythm and force more errors and unforced mistakes.
Expert Betting Tips
Zverev should win because of how he can hold his own in extended rallies and a good record against Griekspoor. His mental stability and experience at this level often see him get the better of high-pressure matches.
It should be his in three straight sets, considering Zverev's record and class to adapt to Griekspoor's aggressive display. He will focus on finishing the points as quickly as possible, rather than giving a wide-open court for him or his opponent to engage in long rallies wherein the latter could find his chances.
The focused Zverev would be expected to dictate the game and may, therefore, deprive Griekspoor of many chances to score. This is particularly probable if Zverev serves well and maintains pressure on Griekspoor's service game.
- Under 23 Games @ 1.62 Odds
- Under 22.5 Games @ 1.83 Odds
- Alexander Zverev Wins 2-0 @ 1.72 Odds