Alex Zverev credits brother Mischa for mastering left-handers, reaches Australian Open quarter-finals

World No. 2 Alex Zverev showcased his prowess against left-handed opponents yet again, securing his 26th consecutive win over a left-hander by defeating Ugo Humbert 6-1, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 at John Cain Arena to advance to the Australian Open quarterfinals on Sunday.

Left-Handed Advantage: A Family Affair

Zverev attributed his success against left-handers to years of practice with his older brother Mischa Zverev, a left-handed former top-30 player and 2017 Australian Open quarterfinalist.

"I don't think it's something that matches up well particularly against left-handed (players)," Zverev said post-match. "I just think it's based simply on the fact that I had an older brother who is left-handed, and I grew up with left-handers.

"Just practising with a left-handed player, knowing all the slices, the topspins that they do, which are maybe uncomfortable for some players, are maybe more comfortable for me simply because I'm used to it. I think that's maybe the main reason."

Zverev’s Path Ahead

A two-time Australian Open semifinalist, the 27-year-old German now prepares to face American right-hander Tommy Paul, who cruised past Alejandro Davidovich Fokina with a dominant 6-1, 6-1, 6-1 victory. Notably, there are no left-handers remaining in Zverev's half of the draw, with Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz set to clash in the other quarterfinal.

While Djokovic, Alcaraz, and defending champion Jannik Sinner have commanded much of the spotlight, Zverev has quietly maintained a perfect start to the season, extending his unbeaten streak to six matches.

Overcoming Early Challenges

Despite dropping his first set of the tournament in scorching conditions, Zverev demonstrated his resilience. After Humbert earned a break point at 3-2 in the final set with a stunning forehand passing shot, Zverev responded with a massive second serve down the 'T' to neutralize the threat. He then broke Humbert again to seal the victory, signaling that his previous bicep injury is no longer a concern.

"A week ago I was very unsure of my level and very unsure of my tennis," said Zverev, the 2023 French Open runner-up still chasing his first Grand Slam title. "I couldn't really prepare the way I wanted to ... but I definitely want to play three more matches here, so we'll see how that goes."

With confidence growing and the bicep injury behind him, Zverev’s sights are firmly set on securing his maiden Grand Slam title in Melbourne.

SportsLigue