Alexander Zverev’s win in Chengdu solidifies Top 8 status

Alexander Zverev continues to make his way back to the upper echelon in tennis. His latest achievement was winning the ATP 250 event in Chengdu. His 2nd title of the season was not easy as he had to overcome three 3-set matches during his tournament.

This title, the 21st of his glittering career, in partnership with his ATP 500 triumph in Hamburg, has put him in a strong position to reach the ATP Finals this year.

A sterling run to the Semifinals at Roland Garros and a Quarterfinal appearance at the US Open have accompanied his two ATP titles. It is clear he is almost nearly past the devastating ankle injury that sapped his fall and winter season last year.

As the season begins steaming down the fall stretch, Alexander Zverev got off to the perfect start to his Asian swing in Chengdu. In the final, he had to bring out some of his best tennis to overcome a spirited Roman Safiullin 6-7 (2), 7-6 (5), 6-3.

Alexander Zverev keeps getting better in 2023

The 6’6″ Zverev was a few points from defeat but he showed the fighting spirit that is now becoming almost commonplace for him to fight back and eventually get the job done.

When a player of his talent begins getting results that builds confidence which in turn helps in difficult moments of big matches. His big match experience definitely aided him in Chengdu as Safiullin just could not get over the finish line. On current form, you would be hard-pressed to bet against Zverev making a return to the Top 5 before the year is out.

However, for now, his main focus is securing a Top 8 spot and a place in the Year-End Championships. An event he has won twice by the way.

Zverev is closing in on 50 match wins this year and 60 could very well be in play as well. He is not taking time to rest as he is jumping straight back into action in a loaded field at the 500 event in Beijing.

The quality of opponents in that tournament gives the vibe of the latter rounds of a Masters 1000. Even coming off a taxing week, Zverev still has to be penned as a favorite for a deep run.

For now, his Chengdu triumph has catapulted him to World No. 10 and in the Live Race to Turin he sits at No. 7. There is no denying it now, he is back. Chengdu could just be the start.