Lorenzo Musetti advanced to the last 16 of the Paris-masters/">Paris Masters after defeating world No. 1 Alexander Zverev in straight sets, 7-6(5), 6-2. The victory was Zverev’s first defeat in Paris since becoming the top-ranked player, according to ANSA.
Musetti said he had maintained an “incredible” level against Zverev, who served very well in the opening set. He came back from 2-5 in the tiebreak, winning four key points to take it, then found his way into the rallies more consistently in the second set and was able to dictate play.
The Italian also credited his courage and a touch of luck for producing what he called a perfect return. He said his serve has been working well and that he has used his slice more than usual, particularly on the backhand. In Paris, he explained, the ball stays low, making it difficult for opponents to get underneath it and control the shot; when the tactic works, it helps him take charge of rallies with his forehand.
Musetti’s next opponent will be Frenchman Luca Van Assche.
Sources: ANSA Sport.