Alexander Zverev opened his Munich campaign with a hard-fought victory over Miomir Kecmanovic, winning 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7/2) in a tense first-round encounter on Tuesday.
The defending champion looked in control after taking the opening set but was pushed to the limit as his opponent raised his level in difficult weather conditions.
After dropping the second set, Zverev was forced into a deciding-set tiebreak by the world number 58, who showed strong resistance throughout the match.
The German eventually steadied himself in the key moments to seal victory after two hours and 18 minutes of play in windy, cold conditions in Munich.
Zverev admitted it was not his cleanest performance but praised his ability to deliver when it mattered most. He also acknowledged the tough weather made it difficult to maintain consistent pressure on his opponent.
The world number three now moves on to face Canada’s Gabriel Diallo in the last 16, as he continues his bid for a fourth Munich title.
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