Alex wins first ATP Zverev brothers battle
WASHINGTON – Agence France-Presse
Third-ranked defending champion Alexander Zverev took bragging rights in his sibling rivalry, beating 15th-seeded older brother Mischa 6-3, 7-5 Aug. 2 to reach the ATP Washington Open quarter-finals.
It was the first ATP meeting for the German siblings, 21-year-old top seed Alex besting 30-year-old Mischa as he rarely did in boyhood battles.
“We had a great time,” Alex said. “I was happy and enjoying the moment. We played near our best. It was unbelievable.
“I just hope it happens again and I hope it happens at later stages of bigger tournaments. I hope we meet again someday in a final.”
Mischa was nearly in tears at the start at a family dream come true.
“When we came back to the benches I had to fight back my tears,” he said. “It was a big day, big match. It was very emotional for me. It was just a great day.”
The rain-hit U.S. Open tuneup event also saw U.S. second seed John Isner ousted by 152nd-ranked compatriot Noah Rubin 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) and Japanese third seed Naomi Osaka, nagged by a right leg injury, lost to Poland’s Magda Linette 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 in the companion WTA event.
“It definitely bothers me a bit out there on the court, but it isn’t anything serious,” Osaka said. “We’re going to prep and get healthy.”
Alex broke Mischa for a 5-3 lead and held again to win the all-Zverev first set in 29 minutes. Alex broke again in the penultimate game and held once more to win after one hour and 51 minutes on a forehand drop volley winner.
“I actually played better than in practice,” Mischa said. “When he hits certain shots, I know what he’s thinking. But that’s a disadvantage, too, because he knows what I’m thinking.”
The elder Zverev, smiling, walked around the net and shared a hug with Alex, patting him on the back as they parted for their chairs.
“I had a big smile. I played OK. I was able to keep up with him,” said Mischa, to which Alex replied, “That comes from a person who kicks my ass every single time in practice.”
Mischa won his first ATP title in June at Eastbourne, a feat he credits his brother for helping him to achieve.
“It was something I always wanted,” Zverev said. “It was him being young and being overly positive that helped me be young, keep working hard and achieve my dream.”
Alex noted his mother watches more of Mischa’s matches, saying, “Apparently the dog has to go to the bathroom every time I play.”
