Djokovic or Zverev?: "Sascha should not let himself be intimidated, he has possibilities"

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There is less time left, about eight hours approximately, to see a new duel between Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev. It will be the first semifinal of the Australian Open 2025, and this might be the opportunity that the German has long been seeking to connect his destiny with his first Grand Slam trophy. After two failed finals (US Open 2020 and Roland Garros 2024), Sascha is hoping that the third time will be the charm. But first, he must overcome the tournament's most successful player, who aims to extend his legendary status with 10 titles.

However, Nole is not in his best physical condition after experiencing some discomfort in the adductor of his right leg that arose during his previous match against Carlos Alcaraz. Amidst the debate surrounding whether it was real or not, the Serbian is focused on being at 100%, even going as far as cancelling his training today. Could this be an advantage for Zverev? Boris Becker, who has coached both players at some point in their careers, discussed some key points of the match on Eurosport.

According to the former German number 1, the physical aspect will definitely be the defining factor in the battle: "If the match drags on, Djokovic is not as strong as he was two or three years ago. Sascha is known for his physical strength, sometimes called 'the marathon man' as he has often had to go through five sets. The question is how the first sets will end". Thus, Becker emphasized not only that his compatriot must implement his best service but also must match Nole in his return game, one of the Serbian's greatest assets.

"This year Sascha is playing a bit more aggressively, closer to the baseline. It starts with the serve but also must involve the return. For the match against Djokovic, it is important for him to set the pace and take the initiative because if Djokovic lets you run, you have no chance," he added. Nonetheless, Zverev is once again close to reaching another major Slam final, this time in a completely new setting. "It takes a lot of courage to reach where he has never been before: to the Australian Open final," his former coach praised.

Which side will prevail?

Regarding the H2H record they hold, it favors Nole with 8 victories and 4 defeats, including three wins in three Grand Slam matchups. This is why Becker warns Zverev: "Novak has been through it all. No one has played more Grand Slam matches or won more Slams. Sascha has experienced everything that can happen on a tennis court. He must stick to his game and showcase his strengths, which are his serve, baseline shots, and physical condition. He must not let himself be intimidated no matter what his opponent does".

Despite the German coach's warnings to his compatriot, it is very challenging for him to pick a side between the two players. Nonetheless, he believes that this time, Sascha has a better chance of defeating the Serbian player than on other occasions. "It's a tough question because Djokovic is like family to me and Sascha is also a close friend. I hope the best player wins. Djokovic is the favorite due to his experience, having already won the tournament 10 times, but I believe Sascha has a shot". What do you think, how do you see this match? Do you agree with Boris?

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, ¿Djokovic o Zverev?: "Sascha no debe dejarse intimidar, tiene posibilidades"