Alexander Zverev overcame another scare at the French Open on Saturday to progress to the fourth round of the tournament for the second year in a row.
Zverev, who reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros 12 months ago, struggled to maintain his consistency on the court against Dusan Lajovic in what was a rematch of their meeting at the same tournament in 2018. Like that occasion, Zverev was once again taken to five sets before prevailing 6-4, 6-2, 4-6, 1-6, 6-2.
“It was almost like last year, Dusan is an incredible player who has played an insane clay court season, it was a very tough match and I am glad that I am further (into the tournament),” Zverev told Eurosport Germany.
Racing to a two sets lead after 80 minutes of play, it looked as if Zverev was on course for a straightforward win. However, Lajovic capitalized on a dip in the form of the German player to revive his chances. Nevertheless, Zverev managed to get himself back on course in the decider with a dominant end to the match. Breaking Lajovic two times in a row on route to the win.
“I did not hit well,” said the 22-year-old. “But then I played more aggressive with the return and made him run more – and so it went better with me.”
Zverev will play Italy’s Fabio Fognini in the next round in what promises to be a stern test. Fognini won the Monte Carlo Open earlier this year, where he defeated the world No.5. Their head-to-head is 2-1 in Zverev’s favour.
It is the fourth time in Zverev’s career that he has managed to reach the second week of a grand slam.
Tsitsipas through
Stefanos Tsitsipas also endured a difficult route into the last 16 of the tournament. The sixth seed resumed his match against Serbia’s Filip Krajinović after it was postponed yesterday due to poor light. Heading into today, with a two-set lead, Tsitsipas struggled to find his range at times as he laboured his way to a 7-5, 6-3, 6-7(5), 7-6(6), victory.
“It’s really tricky when you come back after a day. It’s something unusual, something you don’t do that often.” The world No.6 commented about the two-day clash.
“It’s very psychological. You tend to think about the match the whole time. It’s not easy for my nerves, patience and everything.’
“I’m glad I came back today, got support from the fans and got the job done.” He added.
It was the second match in a row when Tsitsipas has dropped a set. In round two he came back from a set down to defeat Bolivia’s Hugo Dellien. He has now become the first player from his country to reach the fourth round of the French Open since Lazaros Stalios in 1936.
“My body didn’t feel the same today. I felt much lower. I don’t know why, but it’s important that I stay focused, despite having these difficulties today.” He admitted afterwards.
Tsitsipas will play either Grigor Dimitrov or Stan Wawrinka next.
