A blockbuster semifinal comes in as Alexander Zverev takes on Taylor Fritz at the ATP Finals. World No. 2 and World No. 5 have showcased scintillating tennis across the tournament to find a place in the last four. While Zverev enters this match after an emphatic straight-sets win over Carlos Alcaraz, Fritz had to dig deep to defeat Alex de Minaur in three sets. With Fritz representing the contrasting styles of play, the head-to-head with Rune still stands in favor of the first at 5-6, underlining this semifinal as one sure to be a real barnburner.
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Indeed, the German powerhouse has been in insatiable form of late, marrying his naturally aggressive game with an improved consistency. The first serve was a weapon for Zverev against Alcaraz going in at 80% and with nine aces. He has made it a knack to win critical points when under pressure, saving all break points to further enhance his reputation as a big-match player.
But he was at his resilient best during his quarterfinal victory over Alex de Minaur. Though Fritz struggled with his first serve percentage at 64%, he managed to dominate on his second serve points, winning 97%, and also converted three break points to take control. This tendency to rise to the occasion is what makes Fritz a force to be reckoned with against Zverev.
Tactical Approach
Alexander Zverev: Zverev will want to close the consistency with which he served first in the previous match, simply to make it hard for Fritz. He can also count on his strong groundstrokes to work his rallies and push Fritz out of position.
Also, the targeting of Fritz's second serve-where the American has shown vulnerability-will be crucial for an early upper hand.
Taylor Fritz: Fritz needs to put pressure on the Zverev serve, particularly the second serve, knowing full well that the opportunities to break could be key in this semifinal. Remaining calm during long rallies with heavy shots from Zverev will frustrate the German.
Moreover, sharp angles and different placements of shots will be fundamental to offset the rhythm of Zverev for Fritz.
Expert Betting Tips
Zverev's powerful serving can dominate the game, while Fritz's good returning ability can negate this.
Both have shown strong mental fortitude, but the experience that Zverev has in high-stakes matches gives him an edge. After his grueling three-setter, he may be physically ailing against the relentless intensity of Zverev.
Zverev's much better serving and an ability to work out situations of pressure may see him come out on top in a tight encounter.
Given the history of close tussles between them, expect this match to go to the wire with many games going into an extended game.
We can expect that from Fritz's hard baseline game and the tendency to pounce on the second serve of Zverev, the set is likely stolen before the German takes back control.
- Over 22.5 Games @ 1.65 Odds
- Exact Sets 3 @ 2.20 Odds
- Alexander Zverev Wins 2-1 @ 3.40 Odds
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