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Mutua Madrid Open 2021 Semifinals: Dominic Thiem vs Alexander Zverev Preview, Head-to-Head, Prediction

The 2020 US Open final will repeat itself in one of the Mutua Madrid Open 2021 semifinals. Austrian World No.4 Dominic Thiem locks horns with German World No.6 Alexander Zverev for a seat in the final.

Considered two of the most promising next-generation players, Thiem and Zverev will battle yet again to affirm that claim. It might arguably be a better matchup than the final itself, quality-wise.

Read More: “Example to Everyone”: FC Barcelona Star Lionel Messi Lauds Rafael Nadal for Claiming the Top Honour

Dominic Thiem vs. Alexander Zverev: Preview

Surprisingly, this is the first semifinal for the 27-year-old Dominic Thiem in 2021. However, he is on his way to finding his 2020 charm back.

Dominic Thiem
Tennis – ATP Masters 1000 – Madrid Open – Caja Magica, Madrid, Spain – May 7, 2021 Austria’s Dominic Thiem reacts during his quarter final match against John Isner of the U.S. REUTERS/Sergio Perez

In the previous match, Thiem denied American professional John Isner a semifinal spot despite being a set down. Moreover, John hit a whopping 18 aces (107 in the tournament) before losing the match 3-6, 6-3, 6-4.

Conclusively, the Austrian ace will be up and ready for his next challenge against the German. Also, Sascha is his highest-ranked opponent in the 2021 season so far.

The 24-year-old Alexander Zverev caused the ultimate upset at the Mutua Madrid Open 2021. He took down the top seed and five-time champion Rafael Nadal 6-4, 6-4 in the quarterfinal.

Alexander Zverev and Rafael Nadal
Tennis – ATP Masters 1000 – Madrid Open – Caja Magica, Madrid, Spain – May 7, 2021 Germany’s Alexander Zverev and Spain’s Rafael Nadal after their quarter final match REUTERS/Sergio Perez

Although he has played some great matches this year, Sascha has also been inconsistent. But he too has found his winning ways back in the Spanish capital.

Undoubtedly, the German professional will be wary of his next opponent’s dominant stats against him. However, upsetting Rafa would give him a much-needed boost to go all the way in Madrid.

Read More: “Have Been Inferior”: Rafael Nadal Reflects on Humiliating Defeat Against Alexander Zverev at Mutua Madrid Open 2021

Thiem vs. Zverev: Head-to-Head

Thiem has a towering 8-2 advantage against Zverev in their head-to-head battle on the ATP Tour. Interestingly, the duo also played in the 2018 Madrid Open final, where the German won 6-4, 6-4.

But since Madrid, Thiem has obtained four straight wins against Zverev. His biggest title, the 2020 US Open, also came against the German.

Thiem vs. Zverev: Prediction

Given the history, the match will see fireworks from both ends. While Thiem would bring his unrivaled backhand into play, Sascha will continue to maneuver his big serve.

For the Austrian ace, putting early pressure on Zverev will be substantial. He can achieve that with a high first service and return percentage.

On the other side, Sascha needs his first serve to deny Thiem any control in the match. The outcome will then come down to who is hungrier to win.

From the looks of it, the match could go either side. However, one thing is clear – we have a great tennis match waiting ahead of us.

Prediction: Thiem to reach Madrid Open final in three sets.

Also Read: Is Nick Kyrgios More Dedicated to Call of Duty Warzone Than Tennis?

The post Mutua Madrid Open 2021 Semifinals: Dominic Thiem vs Alexander Zverev Preview, Head-to-Head, Prediction appeared first on EssentiallySports.