Alexander Zverev explains Nadal, Djokovic and Federer motivation to beat Andy Murray

Andy Murray says he's in the 'bad books' after losing ring

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Alexander Zverev is hoping to create his own piece of history when he faces off against Andy Murray in the third round at Indian Wells. Murray recorded an impressive win over Spanish teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz on Sunday in the second round.

The former British No 1 has enjoyed good success on the American hard court swing of the season, picking up impressive wins.

He also took Stefanos Tsitsipas to five sets at the US Open in a positive sign that he can still compete with the best on tour.

But Murray still hasn’t gone past the quarter finals at a tournament since competing at the Biella Challenger back in February.

Given a wildcard at Indian Wells, Murray is hoping to break that run this week.

JUST IN: Murray produces insane shot against ‘future No 1’ in Indian Wells win

However, he faces a tough test against No 3 seed Zverev to advance through to the fourth round.

The German was given a bye in the opening round before defeating American Jenson Brooksby in three sets.

Zverev last faced Murray at the 2020 Cincinnati Masters with the latter coming out on top.

Their only other meeting before that came in 2016 at the Australian Open with Murray winning in straight sets.

DON’T MISS

The 34-year-old remains the only ‘Big Four’ player Zverev hasn’t defeated in his career and he’s hoping to change that this week.

“It wasn’t an easy match, but I’m happy to be through, I’m happy to be in the third round and playing Andy now,” he said.

“I think he’s the only one of the ‘Big Four’ I haven’t beaten yet, so I hope I can change that.

“I think it’s incredible how well he’s moving and incredible how well he’s playing.

“I think he’s very motivated so I hope I can show my best tennis.”

Murray had to come from a set down to beat Alcaraz on Sunday and also pulled off an underarm serve to help hold his service game in the second set.

The move didn’t go down well with some of the crowd at Indian Well, but Murray insists he may try it again.

“Certainly when guys are standing there to return serve now, it’s a smart play,” Murray said.

“It’s the first time I’ve ever done it in a match and I got the ace. I served three aces the whole match and one of them was the underarm serve.

“So maybe I’ll try it again in the future if guys are standing that far back.”

Source: Read Full Article