The in-form German Alexander Zverev looks to book a spot in the Round of 16 at the US Open as he takes on France's Adrian Mannarino at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. World No.7 has been playing great tennis this season as he looks to build on his Grand Slam showing at the Australian Open earlier this year where he reached the semi-finals.
The fifth seed hasn't had it easy so far at the US Open as he had to work his way to the third round as he needed 4 sets to win against 2017 finalist Kevin Anderson and American Brandon Nakashima. However, he is keen to improve his performance against Mannarino.
The 32-seed, on the other hand, needed 4 sets to beat Italy's Lorenzo Sonego in the first round before an impressive straight-sets win over American Jack Sock. Mannarino looks to make it to the 4th round of the US Open for the second time in his career.
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Matchup Breakdown
This will be their 3rd meeting. Zverev has beaten Mannarino both the times they have played. However, this will be their first meeting in 3 years. In their last meeting, the 2018 World Tour Finals champion came out victorious at s'Hertogenbosch in 2017.
This can be a tricky match for the German as he usually finds it difficult against left-handed opponents. Mannarino has an effective serve and has the ability to flatten out his forehand. Furthermore, he also has the ability to mix it up and possesses a hefty touch at the net which allows him to work his opponent around the court.
However, Zverev's new coach David Ferrer has instilled innovative methodologies to combat unorthodox players. The former world no.3 was always known for his resilience on the court and if he can instill that patience into the German's game, it will benefit Zverev's game undoubtedly.
This could be a classic. Unfortunately, there are no crowds who can get into these kinds of matches. We expect Zverev to take the initiative in the match on Friday. However, he won't find it easy as Mannarino has the ability to take a set and pressurize the German.
Prediction: Alexander Zverev in four sets.