Daniil Medvedev vs Alexander Zverev - ATP Finals - Preview and Prediction

Two flag-bearers of the Next-Generation continue their quest for glory. World number four, Daniil Medvedev faces number seven, Alexander Zverev tonight.

Key Insights

• Zverev has to win this match to reach the semifinals
• Though Medvedev lost two matches, he can still go to semis, if he wins in straight sets
• Both Medvedev and Zverev lost to Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets
• Zverev is the defending champion
• Zverev leads the head to head record 4-1 against Medvedev

Medvedev has not been able to produce the results despite playing high-quality tennis. He began his campaign with a narrow loss to Tsitsipas in the group stage. 

The Russian suffered a heart-breaking loss to Rafael Nadal in the next match. Though he had a match-point, Medvedev lost five games in a row and lost the match. Vociferous crowd-support for Rafa also played a part in his loss.

Strengths of Medvedev

Unorthodox game-play, relentless returning and calmness are the weapons of Medvedev

On the other hand, it has been a topsy-turvy tournament for "Sascha". After beginning with a bang against Rafael Nadal, he lost steam in the next match. Zverev's attacking game did not fare well against the Greek, who cruised to a comfortable win. A poor second-serve percentage of 31 and allegations of "phone usage" on-court distracted the German.

Strengths of Zverev

A big-serve and high break point conversion are the plus points for Zverev

“He played a fantastic match. I thought I played really bad, at this level, this is how it goes when somebody plays great and you don't play your best. It can go this way, especially against him who I think this surface, these conditions fit him quite well.” said Zverev after his crushing defeat against Tsitsipas.

In times where the old guard is standing strong, the new stars are slowly making the mark.

Prediction - Daniil Medvedev to win in three sets

Cover Image Credits - Getty Images