Alexander Zverev advanced to the second round of the China Open with a 6-4, 6-3 victory over Lorenzo Sonego on Friday in Beijing. The world number 3 displayed a more aggressive style, addressing recent criticism about his passive play throughout 2025. The match took place at the Capital Group Diamond Court on outdoor hard courts, with temperatures around 21 degrees Celsius.
The win strengthens Zverev’s perfect 6-0 head-to-head record against Sonego. The Italian, ranked 44, showed early resistance but succumbed to Zverev’s tactical adjustments. Analysts noted that this offensive approach could elevate Zverev’s performance in the ATP 500 tournament.
- Zverev hit 4 aces with zero double faults.
- First serve percentage: 82%, winning 78% of those points.
- Break points: Converted 3 out of 4 opportunities.
Aggressiveness defines performance
Zverev positioned himself closer to the baseline to counter Sonego’s dropshots. This adjustment allowed quick counterattacks and pressured Sonego from the start.
Former British player Naomi Broady noted Zverev’s “extra aggression,” crucial for dominating extended rallies. She highlighted his 16 net points won out of 23 attempts.
Stats reflect dominance
Zverev won 28 baseline exchanges compared to Sonego’s 20. The Italian capitalized on his sole break point, but Zverev responded with precision.
In the first set, Zverev broke in the seventh game after 40 points played. He secured 24-16 points in that set, solidifying his lead.
A clean serving performance, with no double faults and four aces, underscored Zverev’s accuracy in key moments. He converted 66% of break point chances.
Challenging path ahead
Zverev faces Corentin Moutet in the next round. The two met in Stuttgart earlier this year, with Zverev winning in three sets on grass.
A potential quarterfinal against Daniil Medvedev, the eighth seed, awaits. Zverev leads their head-to-head but must maintain consistency.
- Quarterfinal: vs Medvedev (8).
- Semifinal: vs Musetti (4).
- Final: vs Sinner (1).
World number 1 Jannik Sinner has won their last two encounters. Sinner has only five losses in 2025, to Alcaraz and Bublik.
Head-to-head with Sinner
Zverev holds a 4-3 edge over Sinner. The 2025 Australian Open final ended 6-3, 7-6, 6-3 for Sinner.
In Cincinnati 2024, Sinner won the semifinal 7-6, 5-7, 7-6. Zverev prevailed at the 2023 US Open, 6-4, 3-6, 6-2, 4-6, 6-3.
In Monte Carlo 2022, Zverev won 5-7, 6-3, 7-6. These matches show a tightening rivalry, with Sinner showing tactical growth.
Zverev aims for the Beijing title to boost his late-season form. His 2025 record stands at 45 wins and 19 losses, with 21-7 on hard courts.