The German is masterful on serve, saving set points in the second set and defeating the American. If Jannik wins against Auger-Aliassime, the two will meet on the second day

Jannik Sinner’s opponent on the second day, should the Italian win his debut match, will be Alexander Zverev. The German made a flying start to the 2025 ATP Finals, securing a victory against Ben Shelton with experience and solidity. The final score was 6-3, 7-6(6) in favor of the two-time champion of this tournament, now in his eighth appearance at the Masters. The American, the only newcomer in 2025, paid for his inexperience by wasting three set points in the second set. He will face the loser of the match between Sinner and Auger-Aliassime.

In the first set, the serve helped Zverev but condemned Shelton: the American suffered two breaks, which proved decisive in the 28 minutes it took the German to win the set 6-3. For his part, Sascha lost one point out of 15 on serve in the opening set. The second set was much more balanced, but also more enjoyable to watch, finally ending in a tiebreak. Shelton initially took the lead, first 4-0, then 6-3 with three set points, two of which were on serve. However, he faltered at the crucial moment, hitting two forehands into the net when it mattered most. Zverev did well to keep up the pace and close out the match on his first match point, thanks to his experience. This was the seventh victory in eight matches for the world No. 3 in the opening match of the Finals, dispelling any doubts about his form.