US Open: Three ATP storylines to follow after Day 3
3. Alexander Zverev – Finalist or Bust
The storylines surrounding Alexander Zverev become more confusing by the minute. He’s either the second-best player in the draw behind Djokovic or a complete mess on serve with no chance to get anywhere close to a trophy here in New York.
Today against Brandon Nakashima, however, Zverev’s serve was on point. He served 75% for the match and won 84% of his first-serve points (81-of-97). Zverev’s struggles came on the receiving end matched up against a player who isn’t anywhere near the top tier of servers.
Zverev’s hot-and-cold style of play on serve and generally average return stats doesn’t put him in the best of situations. If he’s on, he has the capability to dethrone Djokovic and take the title. He has the firepower on his serve and from the ground to be able to outpace anyone in the field. Hs movement and footwork are also top-notch, especially for someone of his size.
The problems come in if his serve isn’t at its best. We’ve seen the media mock everything related to that aspect of the game, especially when he’s struggled to string together solid games. As of now, Zverev’s serve is working. If it continues to work moving forward, it shouldn’t come as a shock to see him break into his first major final. his peak is arguably better than Daniil Medvedev’s and this tournament could be the time he finally proves it.
Andy Murray continues to prove he isn't done yet at the US Open. dark. Next
Zverev faces Adrian Mannarino in the 3rd Round and has the possibility to face a draw of Tsitsipas, Djokovic, and Thiem/Medvedev once he hits the quarterfinals.