Zverev plays ugly to get the job done

Alexander Zverev battled wind and heavy conditions on a challenging Sunday at the Rome Masters, with the second seed prevailing 6-1, 6-4 over Alexander Blockx to move into the fourth round.

The German won a rematch of a Madrid semi-final from last month booking a victory which puts him on joint sixth place for the most men’s singles wins in Rome in the Open era.

“It was difficult. Very, very windy in the second set,” the 2-17 and 2024 Foro Italico champion said.

“I’m lucky that I finished (before some brief rain). I was efficient today.

Winning in straight sets is very nice.”

Three-time semi-finalist Casper Ruud padded his lead in the most clay wins category since 2020 by defeating Czech Jiri Lehecka 6-3, 6-4.

Bill Scott

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