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

ATP Tour
Alexander Zverev press conference PA

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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