Alexander Zverev won't be winning the
Mexican Open Acapulco after being dumped out by his compatriot,
Daniel Altmaier during the night which is a first top-10 win on a hard court for the latter and an early exit for the top seed.
Altmaier won 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 to set up a second round clash with Miomir Kecmanovic. It was a set of fine margins to begin the tie as Zverev playing poorly to begin the tie handed the early initiative to Altmaier. He sealed it 6-3, but it was Zverev who had the second set on his racquet. He broke to lead 5-2 and saved one break point when serving for the set to win it 6-3 and force the decider.
Albeit, that was a mere footnote as Zverev had a total of five break points in the next set, while his opponent only had one. But it was a tale of using your chances as Altmaier used his one and Zverev did not. This led to a final set win for Altmaier who now moves on.
Zverev spoke earlier in the week about potentially having to play less due to his diabetes. But a good opportunity with a semi-decent field but not above his level to gain some points has fallen away and he will now have to head to Indian Wells and Miami ready to chase again and likely having to reset his schedule after losing early. While it is a superb milestone for Altmaier.