Alexander Zverev Faces Felix Auger-Aliassime in Season-Ending Championships Match
Introduction
The occupational hazards of tournament pool play mean during this phase of the season-ending championships viewers are commonly confused, searching around for a mathematical tool and trying to work out the complex qualification scenarios. But this evening's contest between Alexander Zverev and Auger-Aliassime, mercifully, is straightforward. This is a winner-takes-all affair: the victor sets up a semi-final battle against Alcaraz at this season-ending event; the unsuccessful competitor goes home.
Zverev is the predicted winner for this: the elite athlete is the more accomplished player, has claimed the title at this competition on two prior occasions and holds the advantage in their personal record six matches to three, securing victories in both their previous matches on an indoor hard court.
Yet … this type of playing field on which Felix has secured the majority of his titles, he is in great form after his impressive recovery against Shelton on midweek and he defeated the German in the US Open early stage in August. Plus, conditions are faster in Turin than at the US Open venue, which works even more in Auger-Aliassime's favour.
Should Zverev be cautious, like he was against the Italian, and Felix aggressively challenges the European player with his stinging serves and fearless play, there is a strong chance the North American athlete – the former prodigy who was once in line in front of the Spanish and Italian stars to succeed the Big Three – who secures the questionable privilege of facing the world No 1 tomorrow.
The match starts: at around 20:30 in the host city, 19:30 Greenwich Mean Time.
