Zverev boosts semifinal bid with win over Schwartzman

Alexander Zverev claimed his first win at the Nitto ATP Finals on Wednesday, stifling a comeback from event debutant Diego Schwartzman.

The German defeated Schwartzman in a thrilling encounter, advancing after a 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 victory. He now holds a 1-1 record in Group Tokyo 1970, and is one win away from qualifying for the semifinals for the third consecutive year.

“It was much better than on Monday,” said Zverev after the match. “Diego is a very difficult player. He deserves to be here… There are no easy matches, but I am happy to get the win. I am happy to give myself a chance to go to the semi-finals and I am excited for Friday.”

The 2018 champion has recorded only two losses on indoor hardcourts, both of them coming to Daniil Medvedev. With that in mind, Zverev will face Novak Djokovic in his final round-robin match on Friday. Both men are seeking qualification to the semifinals, as the World No.1 lost his match against Medvedev later in the day.

“Friday is going to be the most difficult match you can have here against Novak,” said Zverev. “We played twice here already, so I am looking forward to it.”

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