Grigor Dimitrov and Mischa Zverev are facing each other in what is expected to be an explosive first-round match on the second day of Rotterdam Open, which will be held in The Netherlands.
Both the tennis players are coming into the tournament on the back of some consistent performances at the year's first Grand Slam event in Melbourne - Australian Open. While Dimitrov went down against a spirited Rafael Nadal in the semi-final of the tournament, Mischa garnered attention by upsetting world number one Andy Murray in the Round of 16 clash before going down against Roger Federer in the quarter-final.
In Rotterdam though, fifth seed Dimitrov will have a slender advantage over his unseeded, lower-ranked opponent. The Bulgarian was in the form of his life in Australia, winning 10 consecutive matches, including the tile at Brisbane Open, before being stopped by Nadal in Melbourne. The world number 12 also buried the disappointment of not being able to get past the Spaniard and continued his fine form by winning the Sofia Open last week.
Over the last two months, Dimitrov has proved why he is among the best in the business by decimating the likes of Kei Nishikori, Viktor Troicki and Milos Raonic. However, he cannot be complacent against Mischa, who is known for his dangerous serve and volley tactics.
The world number 34, who had battled quite a few injuries in the recent past, started the season on a high with an inspired run in Melbourne. The left-hander, with his precision and aggressive intent, tested Murray with perfectly-timed runs towards the net. However, the same tactic did not work for Mischa against Federer, who was upto the task when his opponent consistently kept charging the net.
Dimitrov, who has a similar style to that of Federer, should be able to fend away the threat from Mischa on Wednesday. A solid opening-round win will definitely help the 25-year-old set his sights on another title in what has been a dream season for him.
TV Schedule
Singapore: Hub Sports 1
Malaysia: Astro Supersport 4
India: Ten 1
UK: Sky Sports
