@Sportshorn
They may be quite different in age but Alexander Zverev and Fernando Verdasco were anything but different in their first round match at the French Open.
So perhaps it was lucky for them the match was postponed after two sets because of darkness.
In a contest riddled with unforced errors, poor decision making and breaks, the World No. 10 and the veteran Spaniard will complete their opening round match on Tuesday.
The players split the opening two sets, Verdasco winning the first 6-4, with Zverev coming back to take the second 6-3. They combined for an astounding 49 unforced errors. There were eight breaks of serve, four for each player along with six double faults. Certainly not the performance many expected from Zverev fresh off his first Masters 1000 title on the clay in Rome.
There was a lot of indecision as to whether to call the match. The tournament referee spent several minutes discussing with the umpire and players what would be best. Despite a little drizzle falling and visibility becoming a factor, the umpire appeared to want the contest to continue. Both players wanted to stop. Zverev could be overheard saying “he’s not thinking about what’s best for the players”.
Ultimately the referee made the decision and the match was called. What’s now a best of three setter will continue on Tuesday. Zverev and Verdasco will be second up on Philippe-Chatrier Court.
