The Australian Open 2025 is finally up and running and the best names in the world have geared themselves up for 2 weeks of action-packed madness. Alexander Zverev, the 27-year-old German superstar, will be looking to end his long wait for a grand slam. However, the road to glory won’t be easy at all. Standing his way in the first round will be the Frenchman Lucas Pouille. Having suffered an unfortunate injury at the United Cup, is Zverev 100% fit to take on his opponent? Will he be able to come out on top?

Alexander Zverev vs Lucas Pouille: Preview

World No. 2 Alexander Zverev will look to carry forward his impressive 2024 momentum as he begins his 2025 Grand Slam journey at the Australian Open. Zverev had a stellar run last year, securing over 60 wins and clinching two Masters 1000 titles in Rome and Bercy. He also reached the French Open final, where Carlos Alcaraz edged him out.

Zverev has shown decent form early this season, recording wins over Thiago Monteiro and Zhang Zhizhen at the United Cup before withdrawing from his quarterfinal match due to an injury. With his powerful baseline game and improved net play, the German is among the top contenders for the title and will aim for a strong start in Melbourne against Lucas Pouille.

On the other hand, his opponent, Frenchman Lucas Pouille will face a tough challenge in Alexander Zverev as he seeks to make an impact at the 2025 Australian Open. Pouille had a quiet 2024 season on the ATP Tour, primarily competing on the Challenger circuit. He reached five finals and won two titles at this level.

On the main Tour, his most notable moment came at Wimbledon, where he made it to the third round but had to withdraw due to injury. Pouille started 2025 at the Brisbane International qualifiers, winning his opening match before falling short in the next round. Known for his aggressive shot-making and variety, Pouille will need to bring his best game to challenge the second seed in the first round.

Zverev vs Pouille: Head-to-head

This will be the first time when both the players are going up against each other. With their head-to-head scores tied at 0-0 each, it will be interesting to see who among the two lays their hands on the win.

Prediction: Alexander Zverev to take an easy win in straight sets

Alexander Zverev enters the first-round clash against Lucas Pouille as the clear favorite. His baseline consistency, dominant groundstrokes, and his reliable serve give him a decisive edge. Zverev’s strong performances in 2024, including two Masters 1000 titles and a French Open final appearance, underline his readiness to make a deep run in Melbourne. However, fitness concerns stemming from his recent withdrawal due to a biceps injury remain a factor to watch.

Lucas Pouille, on the other hand, has shown glimpses of his old form, with a decent Challenger Tour season in 2024. As a former Australian Open semifinalist, his experience on the big stage is undeniable. His versatile style, aggressive shot-making, and net play could trouble Zverev if the German starts sluggishly. Yet, Pouille’s struggles with consistency and lack of matches against top-tier opponents make this a daunting challenge.

The key to this match lies in Zverev’s fitness and Pouille’s aggression. Zverev’s ability to dictate rallies and control momentum will likely neutralize Pouille’s variety. Unless Pouille capitalizes on any early opportunities, Zverev’s superior power and recent form should secure a straight-sets victory for him with minimal resistance.