The whole tennis community took a hit on their expectations when Alexander Zverev, despite his quality, faced a defeat against Carlos Alcaraz at the Roland Garros finals. However, the German has bounced back and has made it to another final, this time, among his own people.

Zverev’s impressive form at the ATP Hamburg propelled him through several challenges, finally locking a position in the title match against Arthur Fils. His rival, although not a top-ranked competitor, has also proven to be strong enough in the ongoing event. But who among these two has better odds of winning? Let’s find out!

Alexander Zverev vs Arthur Fils: Preview

Alexander Zverev

Alexander Zverev is set to face Arthur Fils in the final match of the ATP Hamburg Open. The event began with concerns about Zverev’s knee, especially after his tough second-round match against Hugo Gaston. However, the 27-year-old has been defying the odds and perceptions of struggling through the pain as he easily defeated Pedro Martinez 6-2, 6-4 in the semifinals.

Zverev’s journey back to top form hasn’t been easy. Ever since he incurred an injury in 2023, the semifinals and finals have been a tricky hurdle for him. He finally broke his title drought in Hamburg last year by beating Arthur Fils in the semifinals and Laslo Djere in the final. The last time Zverev played a final was at Roland Garros, where he lost in five sets against Carlos Alcaraz with the score 6-3, 2-6, 5-7, 6-1, 6-2.

Zverev boasts fine numbers on clay courts with 19-4 as the current win-loss record. In his recent match against Pedro Martinez, the German hit seven aces, only two double faults, and an impressive first serve percentage of 63%. He also saved four out of five break points and converted four out of ten.

Arthur Fils

Arthur Fils, on the other hand, had a fortunate break in the quarterfinals when Holger Rune retired due to a knee issue. This run in Hamburg has proved to be a remarkable achievement for Fils, especially after struggling during the South American and European clay swings earlier this season. Currently ranked 58th in the world, the Frenchman has a win-loss record of 13-9 on clay courts this year.

In his recent match against Sebastian Baez, Fils won 7-6(7-4), 6-2 by serving five aces and making only one double fault. His first serve percentage was 65%, and he saved three out of four break points while converting three out of six. This performance marks a high point in his season as he prepares to challenge Zverev for the title.

Zverev vs Fils: Head-to-head

The upcoming showdown at the ATP Hamburg Open is set to mark the third meeting between Alexander Zverev and Arthur Fils. They have played each other twice, with the German managing to dominate both times, extending a 2-0 lead.

Recent matches

• In the 2024 Halle Quarterfinal, Alexander Zverev defeated Arthur Fils 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-4 on outdoor grass.
• In the 2023 Hamburg Semifinal, Alexander Zverev defeated Arthur Fils 6-2, 6-4 on outdoor clay.

Prediction: Zverev to win in straight sets

Alexander Zverev’s powerful forehand is one of the best in the overall game, boasting a 34.6% winner rate on clay. His precise footwork also enables him to cover the court effectively, with an average of 11.4 meters per point. Zverev’s ability to mix up his game with effective drop shots and slices allows him a better edge with a 55.6% success rate on drop shots. This keeps opponents off balance and makes it hard for them to anticipate his next move.

Arthur Fils, on the other hand, is still developing his game on clay and may struggle to match Zverev’s intensity. The German’s experience and success on clay give him a clear advantage, as he is also motivated to take home a clay court title post his Roland Garros defeat. If Zverev somehow manages to utilize his powerful forehand and mix in drop shots and slices, he will, most likely, dominate the match and win in straight sets.