The round of 16 at the ATP Masters 1000 event in Madrid features a high-stakes clash between Alexander Zverev and Francisco Cerúndolo. Both players are clay-court specialists to a degree, but with very different styles and momentum coming into this matchup. With Roland Garros on the horizon, Zverev is particularly motivated to keep building his form.
Alexander Zverev vs Francisco Cerundolo Preview
Alexander Zverev is coming off a drama-filled match against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, where a major controversy over a wrong call almost cost him the victory. Losing by a set and 5-4, Zverev kept his composure and mounted an impressive comeback, eventually winning in three sets. Despite the pressure and frustration, he showed great mental strength, a key indicator of his improving form.
Fresh off his title run last week in Munich, Zverev appears determined to solidify his position among the top players before the French Open. The rescheduling of this match due to a power failure could actually work in Zverev’s favour, giving him a crucial extra day for physical and mental recovery. Known for his strong record in Madrid, Zverev will enter this match full of confidence.
Francisco Cerúndolo is a dangerous player on clay, having made a name for himself with strong showings on the surface. However, he has not been playing at his highest level recently. Although his baseline game and ability to construct points patiently suit clay courts well, inconsistencies and occasional lapses in focus have limited his deep runs this season.
Cerúndolo will need to bring his best tennis to challenge a fired-up Zverev, and while he has the tools to compete, maintaining a high level across three sets against a top player like Zverev has been a struggle for him this season.
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Alexander Zverev vs Francisco Cerundolo – Match Analysis
Alexander Zverev’s powerful serve, reliable backhand, and superior movement on clay should give him the upper hand in this encounter. The German can dominate behind his first serve and use his court coverage to neutralise Cerúndolo’s forehand-heavy game. With the extra rest day and additional motivation to defend ranking points ahead of Roland Garros, Zverev will be focused from the very start.
Cerúndolo will try to stretch the rallies and test Zverev’s patience, but unless the Argentine finds a much higher consistency level than he has shown recently, it’s hard to see him sustaining pressure for long enough. Zverev’s recent confidence and fighting spirit suggest he will control the match tempo and find a way to win.
Betting Tip – Alexander Zverev vs Francisco Cerundolo
Considering Zverev’s superior form, the positive momentum after his comeback win, and the overall stakes for him at this stage of the season, the best betting tip is Zverev to win in straight sets. Expect him to take charge early and finish the match professionally against a battling, but likely overpowered, Cerúndolo.
Betting Tip: Alexander Zverev to Win
Betting Odds: 1.57
Bookmaker: Cloudbet