The inherent challenges of round-robin tennis often result in during this phase of the ATP Finals viewers are commonly confused, searching around for a mathematical tool and striving to determine the complex permutations of qualification. But today's game between Alexander Zverev and Auger-Aliassime, mercifully, is easy. It’s a straight shootout: the victor secures a semifinal contest against Alcaraz at this year-end tournament; the loser goes home.
Zverev is the predicted winner for this: the world No 3 is the more experienced competitor, has previously won at this event on two prior occasions and is ahead in their direct encounters 6-3, securing victories in both their past encounters on an covered hard surface.
Yet … this type of playing field on which Auger-Aliassime has claimed most of his championships, he is in great form after his remarkable turnaround against Shelton on midweek and he took out the German in the US Open early stage in August. Plus, the playing speed is higher in the host city than at the US Open venue, which provides an additional advantage in Auger-Aliassime's benefit.
Should Zverev be cautious, like he was against Sinner, and the Canadian presses the European player with his stinging serves and fearless play, it might very well be the North American athlete – the earlier standout who was previously positioned ahead of the younger champions to take over from the Big Three – who obtains the dubious honour of playing against the world No 1 on Saturday.
Play begins: at around 20:30 in the host city, 7:30 PM in the UK.
Elara is a seasoned strategist with over a decade of experience in corporate leadership and military tactics.
Elizabeth Alvarez
Elizabeth Alvarez
Elizabeth Alvarez
Elizabeth Alvarez
Elizabeth Alvarez