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Introduction

The inherent challenges of round-robin tennis often result in during this phase of the ATP Finals we’re often left confused, hastily looking for a mathematical tool and trying to work out the mind-boggling permutations of qualification. Yet tonight’s match between Alexander Zverev and Auger-Aliassime, fortunately, is straightforward. It’s a straight shootout: the victor earns a final four battle against Carlos Alcaraz at this year-end tournament; the loser is eliminated.

Zverev is the favourite for this: the elite athlete is the more accomplished player, has been the champion at this tournament on two prior occasions and leads their head-to-head six matches to three, winning both the games they've played on an enclosed hard court.

Yet … this type of playing field on which the Canadian has won the bulk of his trophies, he is full of confidence after his remarkable turnaround against Shelton on Wednesday and he defeated the German in the US Open third round in late summer. Plus, the playing speed is higher in the host city than at the US Open venue, which is even more beneficial in the Canadian's benefit.

Should Zverev be cautious, similar to his performance against the Italian, and Auger-Aliassime takes it to the European player with his effective service game and confident shots, there is a strong chance the young Canadian – the earlier standout who was once in line before the Spanish and Italian stars to succeed the legendary trio – who secures the questionable privilege of playing against the global leader tomorrow.

The match starts: at about 8.30pm local time, 7.30pm GMT.