Rafael Nadal vs Alexander Zverev - ATP Finals - Preview and Prediction

The battle between the old guard and the new is set to continue as world number 1, Rafael Nadal takes on number 7, Alexander Zverev tonight.

Key Insights

• Nadal leads the head to head record, 5-0, against Zverev
• Zverev is the defending champion at the ATP Finals
• Nadal did not play the tournament last year
• Nadal has never won the ATP Finals in his career
• Zverev has won one title this season
• Nadal won four titles in 2019

The Spaniard has had a scintillating year. Rafa has found a new love for hard-courts having triumphed in the Rogers Cup and the US Open. 

There were concerns if he would play this tournament after he pulled out of the Paris Masters semis. However, a quick rehab followed by some intense practice sessions is making the top seed look good for the tournament.

On the other hand, "Sascha" has been inconsistent this year. Though he finished as the runner-up in the Shanghai Masters, he lost early in the Swiss Indoors and Paris Masters to Taylor Fritz and Denis Shapovalov respectively.

Strengths of Nadal

Fighting spirit, rock-solid defense and versatility in game have been Rafa's weapons.

Strengths of Zverev

A big-serve and quick court-coverage have been Zverev's weapons.

Nadal will look for a quick start while Zverev would m to keep his nerves under control.

"It is a tournament where you will face the top guys since the beginning, so you need to be 100 per cent ready, but I really hope that I will be able to serve every single day a little better, and my goal is to be on Sunday serving normal, I have good hopes to be 100 per cent ready for Monday", said Nadal reflecting optimism despite injury concerns.

Holding on to the number 1 spot would be Nadal's aim while Zverev will look to end his season on a high.

Prediction - Rafael Nadal to win in three sets

Cover Image Credits - Getty Images