SkiStar Swedish Open, Bastad

[CR21] Tommy Robredo (ESP) vs. [CR123] Alexander Zverev (GER)

Robredo defeated Zverev in the semifinals, 6-3, 6-4.  Zverev’s plans for his first ATP World Tour Final will have to be put on hold as the veteran clay court player, Robredo was not interested in accommodating him. For the second time, Zverev is prevented from advancing to a final by a Spaniard.  In 2014, he was stopped by David Ferrer.  Robredo wanted his opportunity to be in another Swedish Open final. He already owns two titles here and will look to make it three tomorrow.   As he is rapidly approaching the twilight of his illustrious tennis career, another title would add to his stature.

Zverev made him earn the title though.  It was not an easy victory for Robredo, he battled the enthusiasm of the teenager as well as the weather. Yet, both players had to face the same conditions.  Who would handle the conditions better? The experience of age came to Robredo’s aid as he stayed calm when things were a tad frustrating. He fought back from breaks and quality play by Zverev. Zverev was not as calm as his frustration boiled over with his inability to get much traction in the match. Although he lost today, it was another step in the learning experience of our spotlight player, Zverev. We expect to see him in many more semifinals.