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Zverev's Fitness Concerns Cast Shadow Over Alcaraz Showdown at Cincinnati Open

2025-08-16
Zverev's Fitness Concerns Cast Shadow Over Alcaraz Showdown at Cincinnati Open
Daily Express

Alexander Zverev's preparations for his highly anticipated semi-final clash against Carlos Alcaraz at the Cincinnati Open have been thrown into doubt after he voiced concerns about his health following a worrying incident last night. Despite a dominant performance against Ben Shelton, where he secured a convincing 6-2, 6-2 victory in just 77 minutes, the world No. 3 admitted he's unsure if he'll be at full fitness for the crucial encounter.

The German's victory over Shelton was a masterclass in controlled aggression and tactical precision. Zverev dictated play from the baseline, consistently hitting deep and accurate groundstrokes that kept Shelton on the defensive. His serve was also firing on all cylinders, and he capitalised on his opponent's unforced errors to quickly wrap up the match. It was arguably one of his most impressive displays of the season, showcasing his potential to challenge for the title.

However, the post-match press conference took a concerning turn when Zverev revealed he experienced a health scare overnight. While he didn't elaborate on the specifics, he acknowledged it had left him uncertain about his physical condition. This revelation has immediately sparked speculation about his ability to compete at his best against Alcaraz, widely considered the world's best player.

The upcoming semi-final promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the sport's biggest stars. Alcaraz, the reigning Wimbledon champion, has been in scintillating form throughout the tournament, demonstrating his incredible athleticism, power, and tactical versatility. Zverev, a former US Open finalist, will need to be at his absolute peak to stand a chance against the Spaniard.

The question now is whether Zverev’s health issue will hinder his performance. Will he be able to overcome whatever setback he’s facing and deliver a competitive showing? Or will Alcaraz capitalise on any vulnerability to secure his place in the Cincinnati Open final? Fans around the world will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of this potentially captivating match, but with an added layer of intrigue surrounding Zverev's fitness.

The match is more than just a semi-final; it's a potential glimpse into the future of men's tennis. Can Zverev, a proven Grand Slam contender, overcome the challenge posed by the young and dynamic Alcaraz? Or will Alcaraz continue his reign as the dominant force in the sport? The answers will be revealed on court, but first, Zverev must address the pressing concerns about his health.

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