2021 Italian Open Quarter-Final – Alexander Zverev vs Rafael Nadal Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
Where is Alexander Zverev vs Rafael Nadal taking place? Foro Italico, Rome, Italy
When is Alexander Zverev vs Rafael Nadal on and what time does it start? Friday 14th May, 2021 – Not before 11:00 (UK)
What surface is Alexander Zverev vs Rafael Nadal being played on? Clay (outdoor)
Where can I get tickets for Alexander Zverev vs Rafael Nadal? Click here for the latest ticket information
What channel is Alexander Zverev vs Rafael Nadal on? This match will not be televised live in the UK
Where can I stream Alexander Zverev vs Rafael Nadal in the UK? Amazon Prime subscribers can stream the match live on Prime Video. Tennis TV subscribers can also stream the match live
THE PREDICTION
World number six Alexander Zverev overcame Kei Nishikori for a second week running after beating the Japanese on his way to the Madrid Open title last week and now he faces another Madrid victim in Rafael Nadal. Zverev took out the world number three in straight sets exactly a week ago and also in the quarter-final there, though the conditions in Madrid suited the tall German to a tee so the playing field will be slightly more level here. Nevertheless, the 24-year-old is on a seven-match winning streak and knows he can beat the Spaniard on clay. 34-year-old Nadal was part of a three-hour epic on centre court on Thursday with Denis Shapovalov winning the first set and taking the nine-time Italian Open champion right down to the wire. Nadal is more vulnerable right now on clay than we have seen for some time but coming through that almost-defeat should do wonders for his self-belief and he will be vengeful in this quick rematch from last Friday.
Nadal leads their head-to-head record 5-3 but, notably, Zverev has won all of their last three meetings. Take the German to win at least a set here, with this looking like another three-set showdown for Nadal.
