Alexander Zverev of Germany showcased his exceptional form at the Cincinnati Open on Thursday, defeating Karen Khachanov of Russia 6-3, 6-2 in the men’s singles second-round match. This victory marked Zverev’s 50th tour-level win of the 2024 season, underscoring his consistency and dominance on the court.
Despite a 10-minute rain delay, the 27-year-old German needed just 78 minutes to secure the win, outpacing Khachanov with a 16-9 advantage in winners. Zverev expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating, “I felt well on the court. I have felt well in practice and then it is easier to bring on court. I didn’t feel well in Canada at all, even in the few matches I won. I hope my form is getting better and better and I can play some good tennis.“
Reflecting on his rivalry with Khachanov, Zverev added, “We are very similar players. We are both very tall and good baseline players and when we are both playing it is about form and who is playing better and today I am happy that it was me and I got a good win today.“
This marks the fifth time that Zverev has secured at least 50 tour-level wins in a single season, having previously achieved the feat in 2017, 2018, 2021, and 2023. Zverev, who lifted the championship trophy at the Cincinnati Open in 2021 after defeating Andrey Rublev 6-2, 6-3 in the final, is looking to replicate his past success.
“It has been a good year but I have had some very tough losses that I have had to take,” Zverev said. “It is about learning and improving and hopefully I can get back to a Grand Slam final and hopefully win it.“
In other matches, Andrey Rublev of Russia overcame Zhang Zhizhen of China with a 6-4, 6-3 victory. Rublev displayed exceptional efficiency, delivering 23 winners with only five unforced errors in the 61-minute match.
As the Cincinnati Open progresses, tennis enthusiasts are eager to see how these top players will continue to perform, setting the stage for an exciting lead-up to the upcoming Grand Slam events.
Reference(s):
Alexander Zverev advances at Cincinnati Open with season's 50th win
cgtn.com
