The Pick presented by DraftKings Sportsbook: Alexander Zverev vs. Matteo Berrettini, ATP Finals Turin
With his incredible range and power from the corners, Zverev presents more than a few matchup problems for the Italian.
Alexander Zverev will kick off his 2021 ATP Finals quest against huge-hitting Matteo Berrettini. After 11 years in London, the championships will be held in Turin until 2025. The court in London historically played very quick, so be sure to monitor the opening round matches very closely in order to gauge the conditions at this new venue.
But whether the surface plays slow or fast, there is no question Zverev has a major edge on an indoor hard court. The German has won six of his 18 ATP titles indoors with a career 64-33 record. Berrettini owns no indoor titles and his career record is just 13-13 indoors.
At first glance, it appears the best bet is Zverev to win by 3 games (+100). The German’s incredible court coverage, especially his open stance crosscourt backhand, should cause problems for the Italian.
Berrettini will obviously look to destroy any forehand that comes his way, but Zverev’s ability to simultaneously defend his backhand corner, while generating incredible pace, should serve him well.
Berrettini has never beaten Zverev on a hardcourt, and after a sizzling start to the season, Berrettini has definitely cooled off a bit. Additionally, the Italian was forced to withdraw from the Paris Masters due to a neck injury, so we aren’t sure if he will be 100%.
The Italian’s health concerns, combined with his matchup problems, makes Zverev -3 games a rock-solid play.
The Pick: Alexander Zverev -3 games