Former champion Zverev off to winning Rome start

2017 Rome Masters champion Alexander Zverev kicked off with a 6-0, 6-4 win over Aleksandar Vukic to power ahead to the third round on Friday.

The German who is trying to recover from indifferent form with Roland Garros starting in just over a fortnight, spent a brief 81 minutes in summery conditions on the clay of the Foro Italico.

Victory over the Australian was the 23rd win this season for the 27-year-old.

Zverev finished on his first match point, a forehand winner down the line.

“I hope this is just a start,” the winner said. “I want to play a good tournament, win a lot of matches and go deep.

“I want the chance to win.”

Zverev was pleased with his opening effort: “I came out firing and I’m happy about today.

“I may be a former champion but I know I need to find my game  and focus on myself. 

“I can lose to anyone but when I find my rhythm I can beat anyone also.”

Bill Scott

Recent Posts

US Open 2026 Women’s Day 2

Aryna Sabalenka began her quest for a third straight title at the US Open as…

7 hours ago

US Open 2026 Men’s Day 2

Carlos Alcaraz ended a four-and-a-half month injury exile with a resounding 6-4, 6-4, 6-4  defeat…

7 hours ago

Venus loses late in 26th USO appearance

Williams has lost her last 15 matches as a wild card, with her last victory dating…

17 hours ago

US Open 2026 Men’s Day 1

Novak Djokovic hit the wall as the 24-time Grand Slam winner vomited at the back…

17 hours ago

US Open 2026 Women’s Day 1

Third seed Jessica Pegula got up and running on Sunday's opening day at the US…

1 day ago

Last-gasp pullout for injured Ruud

Former finalist Casper Ruud made a last-minute pull out on Sunday as the US Open began,…

1 day ago