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Zverev powers into Australian Open third round with dominant performance

Zverev powers into Australian Open third round with dominant performance

Zverev powers into Australian Open third round with dominant performance
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15 Jan 2025 8:20 PM IST

Alexander Zverev, the world number two, continued his impressive run at the Australian Open with a commanding straight-sets victory over Spain's Pedro Martinez. The German star overwhelmed his fellow 27-year-old on Rod Laver Arena, securing a 6-1, 6-4, 6-1 win in just under two hours.

Zverev, aiming to surpass his semifinal appearance from last year, will next face Britain’s Jacob Fearnley, who triumphed in a hard-fought four-set battle against Frenchman Arthur Cazaux.

Reflecting on his efficient performance, Zverev quipped, “Usually, I’m out here playing 7-6 in the fifth for four-and-a-half hours, but I’m getting older. I have to shorten things up a little. Hopefully, there’s more to come in the later rounds.”

From the start, Zverev dictated the pace. He broke Martinez early with a sharp backhand winner and breezed through the first set in just 34 minutes, striking 10 clean winners. Martinez, ranked 44, found his rhythm in the second set but was unable to keep up as Zverev unleashed back-to-back forehand winners to secure a decisive break at 3-2. The German then maintained his dominance, closing out the match with ease.

Last season was one of Zverev’s strongest yet, but the coveted Grand Slam title continues to elude him. His closest attempts have been runner-up finishes at the 2020 US Open and the French Open in 2024. As he continues his quest for a maiden major title, Zverev’s clinical form hints at more success in the rounds to come.

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