Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the US Open match.
Alexander Zverev is the bookmakers’ favourite, but Félix Auger-Aliassime is in strong form and capable of beating top-level opponents. The Canadian should have opportunities in this match-up.
Alexander Zverev
Zverev opened the tournament by seeing off Alejandro Tabilo and Jacob Fearnley without dropping a set. Across six sets he held serve with ease and controlled the baseline exchanges, although both opponents looked short of their best. Even so, against the Chilean, Alexander was taken to a tie-break in the second set. The German has played the US Open third round six times, and each of those matches finished in four sets.
Félix Auger-Aliassime
Auger-Aliassime also started well: he beat Roman Safiullin and Márton Fucsovics in straight sets. Over two matches he surrendered only four games, struck 24 aces, and won 77% of points behind his first serve. The Canadian traditionally performs well in Grand Slam third rounds, with seven wins from nine such matches. He often pushes the top players, especially in extended sets. Against Alexander Zverev, Félix trails 3-6 head-to-head, but he has covered the +5.5-game handicap in five of the last six meetings.
Alexander Zverev vs Félix Auger-Aliassime Prediction
Zverev is the favourite, but his game often allows opponents a look-in. With Auger-Aliassime serving well, a straight-sets win for the German looks unlikely. The Canadian can force at least one tie-break and should be capable of covering the handicap.
