Clutch Alexander Zverev opens ATP Finals campaign with a bang

There’s something about the electric buzz of the ATP Finals that seems to flip a switch in Alexander Zverev. Under the low, cinematic lights of Turin’s Inalpi Arena, he stepped onto the court not just to compete but to stake an early claim in his hunt for a third season-ending crown.

And though it wasn’t all smooth sailing, the German maestro knew how to ride the waves.

Facing the fearless American newcomer Ben Shelton in the Bjorn Borg Group opener, Zverev pulled off a 6-3, 7-6 win that was less routine than the score might suggest.

The match unfolded like a two-act drama. A composed first set from Zverev followed by a second set that bristled with tension, risk, and the flash of a potential upset. Shelton, making his ATP Finals debut, brought his usual dose of swagger and cannonball serves, but in the end, experience won the day.

Zverev didn’t face a single break point all night. That stat alone speaks volumes, especially against someone like Shelton, who thrives on disrupting rhythm.

The first set was wrapped up in just 28 minutes. Zverev was at his efficient best, dictating from the baseline and striking with surgical precision. It was a masterclass in how to neutralize power with poise.

But then came the second set, and Shelton began to swing with abandon.

The 21-year-old American surged to a 4-0 lead in the tiebreak, riding a wave of momentum and crowd energy. At 6-4, he had three set points in hand and the scent of a deciding set in the air. That’s when Zverev showed why he’s been here, done this, and lifted the trophy twice before.

“He’s unbelievably aggressive. One of the most aggressive players on tour, honestly,” Zverev said after the match. “In the tie-break, he played lights-out for the first few points. But I just told myself to stay calm, focus on what I can control.”

And he did. Like a veteran tightrope walker, Zverev steadied his footing, waited for Shelton to blink — which he did, netting a routine forehand at 6-5 and then closed the door with a flourish.

What made the performance all the more impressive was that Zverev came into this tournament nursing the echoes of an ankle injury that hobbled him in Paris just over a week ago. But you wouldn’t have known it from the way he moved. Cat-quick around the court, always in position, never looking rushed.

There’s also the head-to-head dominance he now holds over Shelton. This was their fifth meeting, all victories for Zverev, and the fourth just this year. Call it a matchup nightmare or just a case of one man having the other’s number. Either way, it’s clear who holds the psychological edge.