Alexander Zverev makes solid start at Halle but Philipp Kohlscreiber crashes out

Michael Graham 18 Jun 2019 8:28 AM

Alexander Zverev made an impressive start to his Halle campaign by overcoming a stern test against Robin Hasse in the first round on Monday.

The German took the first set relatively comfortably, but found himself 5-2 down in the second. However, he managed to take five games in a row to ease to a 6-4, 7-5 win.

“This is probably one of my favourite tournaments and I’m always motivated here” said Zverev, who has twice lost in the final of the tournament.

“Last year, I played with an injury here and lost first round and this year I really want to do well.

“I hope this was a good start for a good tournament for me.”

Zverev will face Steve Johnson next, who snapped a three-match losing streak to register an impressive victory over Philipp Kohlscreiber in his first round match.

“He is someone who has an unbelievable serve, a very good grass-court game,” Zverev said of the American.

“He has won a [couple] tournaments on grass. He has a good forehand and a very good slice. He beat Philipp in straight sets, which also tells a lot.

“It won’t be an easy match but there are no bad players here. Therefore, there aren’t any easy matches here.”

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