World No. 2 Alexander Zverev has withdrawn from the United Cup due to a bicep strain, less than two weeks before the Australian Open. The 27-year-old German star had been in stellar form, winning his first two singles matches against Brazil’s Thiago Monteiro and China’s Zheng Zhizhen. However, his much-anticipated quarterfinal clash with Kazakhstan’s Alexander Shevchenko in Perth was called off at the last minute.
Tournament organizers confirmed the news, stating, “Alexander Zverev has withdrawn from the United Cup due to a bicep strain. Daniel Masur will take his place for Team Germany in today’s singles match against Kazakhstan.” With Kazakhstan already leading the tie 1-0 following Elena Rybakina’s dominant victory over Laura Siegemund, Zverev’s absence added to Team Germany’s challenges.
Zverev’s fitness woes come at a critical juncture. Despite his consistent performances on the tour, he remains in pursuit of an elusive Grand Slam title. Having finished as runner-up at the 2020 U.S. Open and the 2024 French Open, the Australian Open starting January 12 represents another opportunity for the talented German to break his Grand Slam drought.
The withdrawal raises questions about Zverev’s readiness for the season’s first major tournament. While the injury appears to be a strain, further complications could hamper his preparation and performance. For now, fans and analysts alike are hoping this setback is a minor hurdle in what could be a defining year for Zverev.
FAQs
- Why did Alexander Zverev withdraw from the United Cup? Zverev withdrew due to a bicep strain, which was confirmed by tournament organizers.
- Who replaced Zverev in the United Cup quarterfinals? Daniel Masur stepped in for Zverev to play against Alexander Shevchenko of Kazakhstan.
- How has Zverev performed in Grand Slam tournaments? Zverev has been a runner-up twice, at the 2020 U.S. Open and the 2024 French Open, but has yet to win a Grand Slam title.
- When does the Australian Open start? The Australian Open begins on January 12.
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