After a late start at the Madrid ATP Masters, Alexander Zverev, the tennis Olympic champion, overcame Canadian Denis Shapovalov in a post-midnight duel. Zverev, the fifth-ranked player in the world from Hamburg, delivered a clinically precise performance, concluding with a 6:4, 7:5 win to progress to the last 16. Awaiting him there is Argentine Francisco Cerundolo.

Late night triumph

Zverev, a two-time champion in the Spanish capital, had to wait for his match against the world number 132 until 23:00. In a demanding match, the German player showcased his dominance, converting his second match point after 1 hour and 44 minutes to secure his fourth consecutive Round of 16 appearance at the Madrid Open. The late-night spectacle not only highlighted Zverev's condition but also his unwavering focus under night skies.

Struff's consistent stride

Earlier, the recent Munich champion and last year's finalist, Jan-Lennard Struff, had secured his spot in the Round of 16. Struff, demonstrating steady strides in his performance, is set to meet the defending champion, Carlos Alcaraz of Spain, in what promises to be a captivating encounter of tennis prowess.

Editor: Emiliia Morozova