Zverev, Tsitsipas To Collide For Acapulco Title

Alexander Zverev overcame a break down in the second and an earthquake to beat Dominik Koepfer 6-4, 7-6(5) to reach his second career final in Acapulco.

After hanging on to win a 3-break opening set, play was halted as the ground shook from a 5.7 magnitude earthquake that hit the region.

“The lights started shaking and the crowd felt it more than we did,” Zverev said. “We were running around the court, so we had to play a point during the earthquake. We didn’t feel much, but still obviously I know it happens here in Acapulco.”

Koepfer got on top in the second for a 3-1 lead before Zverev got back on track.

“He’s a very tough player to play right now. He won some incredible matches,” Zverev said. “Beating Raonic on a hard court the way that he did is very tough. I think he showed that he is somebody who can play extremely well on this level. Today, honestly, I thought I played a not bad match and he gave me a tough time.”

In his 23rd career final, Zverev will face talented rival Stefanos Tsitsipas. The top-seeded Tsitsipas rolled past Italian teen Lorenzo Musetti 6-1, 6-3.

“Matches like this are really important and I’m happy to be playing well,” said Tsitsipas. “Acapulco has been treating me really well and the fans have been giving me love and support. We’ll definitely see a lot from Lorenzo in the future, he has a wonderful one-handed backhand and creates lots of opportunities. He showed his level this week.”

Zverev will seek his 14th career title, Tsitsipas his 6th. Tsitsipas leads the German 5-1 in their series.

“I am really looking forward to the final,” said Tsitsipas. “Sascha is someone I’ve played against in the past and it’s never easy. We’re both really hungry and we’re both very competitive.”

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