"I don't really understand the reasoning behind this choice," Zverev criticizes court speed in Cincinnati

After defeating Basavareddy (6-3, 6-3) in his opening match at Cincinnati, Zverev hopes to perform well again in a tournament he won in 2021. Speaking to the press after the match, the German reflected on his performance and criticized the quality of the courts at the American tournament.

"Cincinnati used to be a very fast tournament, but it has become extremely slow now. I don’t really understand the reasoning behind this choice, especially since in New York, the courts will be very fast again. I’m not a big fan of this surface. I just hope to play good tennis and go as far as possible."

Despite reaching the Australian Open final earlier this year, Zverev is still aiming to add a 16th title to his career on this surface, his last one dating back to the 2024 Paris-Bercy Masters.

In Ohio, he will face Nakashima for a spot in the round of 16.