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Shanghai Masters: Zverev advances to the second round smoothly

Alexander Zverev defeated Mattia Bellucci in straight sets on Saturday and will face the winner of the match between Australian Jordan Thompson and Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor next.

Por: Rubén Carrillo
Shanghai Masters: Zverev advances to the second round smoothly / Photo via courtesy
Shanghai Masters: Zverev advances to the second round smoothly / Photo via courtesy

Germany’s Alexander Zverev, the second seed, reached the third round of the Shanghai Masters by defeating Italian qualifier Mattia Bellucci 6-4, 6-2 at the Qi Zhong Tennis Center on Saturday.

 

This was Zverev’s first match after the Laver Cup, and he needed less than 100 minutes to secure the victory, having received a bye in the first round.

 

The German delivered a clinical performance, maintaining a strong serve, hitting seven aces and 18 winners, while converting three break points to easily overcome Bellucci in the second round.

 

Ranked No. 3, Zverev will now face the winner of the upcoming match between Australian Jordan Thompson, seeded 26th, and Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor.

 

In the previous round of the Shanghai tournament, Bellucci, ranked No. 101, had defeated lucky loser Billy Harris (6-3, 6-4).

Shanghai Masters: Zverev advances to the second round smoothly / Photo via courtesy
Shanghai Masters: Zverev advances to the second round smoothly / Photo via courtesy

The Shanghai Masters, officially known as the Shanghai Rolex Masters, is one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in Asia. 

 

Established in 2009, it is part of the ATP Tour’s Masters 1000 series, making it one of the highest-tiered events in men’s tennis outside of the four Grand Slams. Held annually at the state-of-the-art Qi Zhong Tennis Center, the tournament attracts the top-ranked players from around the world.

 

Shanghai’s entry into the tennis spotlight began with the hosting of the Tennis Masters Cup (now the ATP Finals) from 2005 to 2008, which paved the way for the creation of the Shanghai Masters. 

 

The tournament quickly became a favorite among players and fans due to its high-level organization and enthusiastic crowds.

Shanghai Masters: Zverev advances to the second round smoothly / Photo via courtesy
Shanghai Masters: Zverev advances to the second round smoothly / Photo via courtesy

Since its inception, the Shanghai Masters has seen champions like Novak Djokovic, who holds the record for the most titles at the event, and Andy Murray. 

 

Roger Federer and Daniil Medvedev have also been among the elite players to lift the trophy. The tournament has established itself as a key stop in the Asian swing of the ATP Tour, contributing to the growth of tennis in China and across Asia, making it a cornerstone of the sport in the region.

 

The Shanghai Masters has solidified itself as a cornerstone event in the ATP Tour, not just for its prestigious status but also for its impact on the growth of tennis in Asia. Since its establishment in 2009, it has been the only Masters 1000 tournament held in China and one of the few elite events in Asia, highlighting the region’s increasing importance in the global tennis landscape.

Shanghai Masters: Zverev advances to the second round smoothly / Photo via courtesy
Shanghai Masters: Zverev advances to the second round smoothly / Photo via courtesy

The tournament is held at the Qi Zhong Tennis Center, a world-class facility known for its unique, retractable roof shaped like a magnolia, Shanghai’s official flower. The state-of-the-art venue provides excellent conditions for both players and spectators, ensuring a top-notch experience for all involved.

 

In addition to being a key stop in the ATP’s Asian swing, which also includes tournaments in Tokyo and Beijing, the Shanghai Masters is renowned for its high-level competition. Novak Djokovic has dominated the event, winning four titles, while Andy Murray and Roger Federer have also enjoyed great success. 

 

The tournament regularly attracts the biggest names in tennis, contributing to its reputation as a must-watch event.

 

Beyond its significance on the court, the Shanghai Masters has played a vital role in popularizing tennis in China. With growing attendance and a strong following, the event has helped inspire a new generation of tennis players and fans in Asia.

Shanghai Masters: Zverev advances to the second round smoothly / Photo via courtesy
Shanghai Masters: Zverev advances to the second round smoothly / Photo via courtesy

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