Zverev Battles Auger-Aliassime in ATP Finals Match

Introduction

The occupational hazards of round-robin tennis often result in at this point of the ATP Finals we’re often left puzzled, searching around for a mathematical tool and trying to work out the complex permutations of qualification. But this evening's contest between Alexander Zverev and Felix Auger-Aliassime, mercifully, is easy. This is a winner-takes-all affair: the winner secures a final four battle against Carlos Alcaraz at this season-ending event; the unsuccessful competitor goes home.

Zverev is the favourite for this: the world No 3 is the more accomplished player, has previously won at this competition twice before and holds the advantage in their personal record six matches to three, securing victories in both the games they've played on an indoor hard court.

However … this particular court on which the Canadian has won the bulk of his trophies, he is full of confidence after his compelling comeback against Shelton on midweek and he eliminated the German in the US Open third round in August. Additionally, conditions are faster in Turin than at the US Open venue, which provides an additional advantage in Auger-Aliassime's favour.

Should Zverev be cautious, as he did against Sinner, and Auger-Aliassime takes it to the German with his stinging serves and fearless play, it might very well be the North American athlete – the earlier standout who was earlier slated before the Spanish and Italian stars to take over from the legendary trio – who obtains the uncertain distinction of facing the world No 1 tomorrow.

Action commences: at about 8.30pm local time, 19:30 Greenwich Mean Time.