Zverev Kickstarts Rome Masters with Impressive Win, Earns Approval from Mats Hummels

Zverev Wins Rome Opener, Advance to Next Round

Alexander Zverev (28) opened his French Open dress rehearsal at the Rome Masters with a confident 6:2 6:1 victory against Argentina’s Camilo Ugo Carabelli on Friday. The world No.18 will face Lithuania’s Vilius Gaubas (20) in the next round.

Hummels Impressed by Zverev’s Performance

Zverev’s form is crucial as he prepares for the clay-court highlight, the French Open in Paris (May 25). Despite winning in Munich, his clay-court season has been underwhelming. Notably, he crashed out early in Madrid. In Paris, Zverev is determined to win his maiden Grand Slam title.

I was impressed by Zverev’s performance today. He played with great confidence and efficiency. Mats Hummels, Soccer World Champion 2014 and AS Roma player

At the Campo Centrale, the main court at the monumental Foro Italico complex in Rome, the clearly superior Zverev disposed of Ugo Carabelli in just 66 minutes. He will face higher-ranked opponents later, including Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz, making a comeback after injury, and Italy’s Jannik Sinner, returning after a doping ban.

The Spanish world No.1, Carlos Alcaraz, is scheduled to play his first match in three months on Saturday, and the Italian fans are eager to see his return. The lively atmosphere at Zverev’s match was highlighted when the defending champion greeted soccer world champion Mats Hummels, who was enjoying the tennis action.

Zverev Last German in Men’s Tournament

Zverev is the remaining German male competitor in the tournament. Jan-Lennard Struff withdrew his participation after a short notice, while Daniel Altmaier was eliminated early on.