Alexander Zverev vs Felix Auger Aliassime - China Open - Round of 16 - Preview and Prediction

The clash of the Next-Gen players continues as World number 6 Alexander Zverev takes on World Number 20 Felix Auger in the pre-quarterfinals of the ATP 500 China Open.

After the highs of winning the 2018 ATP Finals, where he defeated Federer and Djokovic (both in straight sets) in the semifinals and the finals, Zverev has had a mixed year so far in 2019.

The German was better in Grand slams this year as he managed to reach the fourth round in the Australian Open and the US Open, quarterfinals in the French Open. An exit in the first round of the Wimbledon was a shocker, though. However, Zverev is in good touch now having just guided Team Europe to a hat-trick of Laver Cup titles.

Coming to this match, Zverev has been in brilliant form thrashing Frances Tiafoe 6-3 6-2 in the round of 32. Sascha also made a smart move to play doubles with the big-serving John Isner. The move paid off as Zverev/Isner beat the French Open champions Kevin Krawietz/ Andreas Mies in three sets in the pre-quarterfinals. They were leading 4-6 6-3 8-4 in the quarter-finals against the Russian pair of Andrey Rublev and Karen Khachanov but the latter pair pocketed the next six points to clinch the match.

On the other hand, Felix Auger Aliassime has gone from strength to strength this year. His performance in Grand Slams has not been impressive with early exits, second round qualifying in the Australian Open, first round in the French Open and the US Open, and third round in the Wimbledon.

The Canadian has compensatedfor  that dismal show by finishing as runner-up in three tournaments, Rio De Janeiro, Lyon, and Stuttgart. He also reached the semi-finals in highly competitive tournaments such as the Miami Open and the Queen's Club Championships.

Felix Auger defeated Albert Ramos-Vinolas 6-3 6-4 in a clinical performance in the previous match and would look to trouble Zverev right from the start. He also combined with Matteo Berrettini to play doubles. The pair lost a thriller 6-7 6-2 10-8 to Rublev/Khachanov in the pre-quarterfinals.

Two things to watch out for in this match

• Youthfulness, Excitement and Energy will be on full display this match as a 22-year-old Zverev takes on a 19-year old Felix Auger. The fans will have a tough time to choose between the two equally talented players.
• An awesome battle of aces may be seen as both Zverev and Felix Auger have a big serve
   

Zverev holds the edge in form and experience when compared to Felix Auger. He won his only encounter against Felix Auger in the Monte Carlo Masters 2019 conceding just five games in a straight-sets rout.

Prediction - Alexander Zverev to win in three sets

Cover Image Credits - Tennis365.com