MELBOURNE — Alexander Zverev overcame a hesitant start to launch his Australian Open campaign with a four-set victory over Gabriel Diallo on Sunday, January 18. The third seed recovered from a first-set tiebreak loss to claim a 6-7 (1), 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 decision at Rod Laver Arena in two hours and 43 minutes.

Zverev, last season’s runner-up at Melbourne Park, took time to settle into the match as the 24-year-old Canadian played aggressively in the opening exchanges. The German gradually found his range, using his weight of shot to take control of baseline rallies.

The early tiebreak exposed Zverev’s lack of rhythm, with unforced errors allowing Diallo to build confidence. However, once the second set began, the momentum shifted decisively in the German’s favor.

Zverev regains control after slow start

Zverev’s serving improved sharply after the opening set, giving Diallo fewer chances to attack on return. The world No. 3 began dictating points with deeper groundstrokes and more assertive court positioning.

Diallo struggled to maintain the same intensity as the match progressed, particularly under the warm conditions inside Rod Laver Arena. Zverev capitalized by extending rallies and forcing mistakes at key moments.

The German’s composure was evident in the closing stages, where he protected his service games and applied constant pressure on Diallo’s delivery. His experience in long Grand Slam matches began to tell.

Melbourne campaign continues

With the opening hurdle cleared, Zverev carries renewed confidence into the second round of the tournament. The performance marked a steady, if not spectacular, beginning to his Melbourne Park campaign.

The three-time Grand Slam finalist remains in pursuit of a maiden major title, having finished runner-up at last year’s Australian Open. His next opponent will be either Australia’s Alexei Popyrin or France’s Alexandre Muller.