Alexander Zverev made a smooth start in the quest to win his first major at the Australian Open, where he moved past French wild card Lucas Pouille 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 to reach the second round in Melbourne.
Zverev arrived in Melbourne having won two matches at the United Cup. He withdrew ahead of Germany’s quarter-final clash against Kazakhstan due to a bicep strain, but he showed little sign of discomfort against Pouille, hitting 37 winners and saving both break points he faced to advance after two hours and 20 minutes.
The 27-year-old is hopeful this is just the start of his two-week endeavor, as he looks to become the first German man to win a major since Boris Becker at the AO in 1996. “He’s someone who, when healthy, is definitely not at the ranking he is,” said Zverev of 2019 semi-finalist Pouille. “He’s been in the semifinals here before. I wish him health, first of all, and he’s going to be back up the rankings soon.”
This victory marks Zverev’s ninth consecutive year advancing to the second round at the Australian Open, as he prepares to face Spaniard Pedro Martinez next. Zverev is eager to capture his first Grand Slam title, which has eluded him for nearly a decade, after falling short as runner-up at the 2020 US Open and again last year at Roland Garros.
During the match against Pouille, Zverev demonstrated remarkable control and efficiency. His only breaks of serve came at key moments, securing one break to win the first set, and breaking Pouille's serve early for the second. Zverev's performance was clinical; he earned 40 winners and saved both break points afforded to Pouille. Ending the match with his 18th ace capped off the straightforward victory.
Discussing his performance and Pouille's capabilities, Zverev stated, “He’s definitely going to be back up the rankings very soon.” Complementing his former semi-finalist opponent, Zverev acknowledged the challenge Pouille presents when healthy, highlighting his prowess on the court.
Next up for Zverev is the 44th-ranked Pedro Martinez, who will look to provide more resistance as both players aim to advance round-by-round. Notably, Zverev is also positioned within the same draw section as record 24-time major winner Novak Djokovic and third-seeded Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, but he would not meet either contender until the semifinals.
Beyond the match, Zverev shared some light-hearted humor about his coaching situation, which involves his father and brother. “I chose? I didn’t really have a choice, to be honest,” he joked. “What am I going to say, Christmas dinner, ‘No, you’re not coming to Australia?’ Their bags are packed already.”
Zverev's aspirations for this tournament are strong. Having reached the semi-finals last year, accumulating invaluable experience along the way, he feels prepared to tackle the challenges ahead. Given his impressive start, many fans and analysts have faith he can navigate through the draw successfully.
With expectations high, Zverev hopes this year will be different, propelling him closer to lifting the coveted Grand Slam trophy. Aiming to fulfill his dream, Zverev’s performance against Pouille may just be the launchpad he needs for continued success at the Australian Open this year.