Zverev grinds through to 2nd round at BMW Open by Bitpanda

April 14, 2026 / 9:15 PM

Sharjah 24: Alexander Zverev prevailed in a difficult match against Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic on Tuesday in Sharjah, securing his place in the second round of the BMW Open by Bitpanda in Munich with a score of 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (2).

The defending champion appeared to be in control after winning the first set comfortably. However, a series of unforced errors crept into his game, allowing Kecmanovic to bring the match back into contention, which made the match more competitive and put Zverev's chances of winning at risk. The world number 58 levelled the match by winning the second set and pushed Zverev to a tie-break in the third. However, he was ultimately unable to find a path over the line.

The Bavarian cold maintains composure

Zverev ultimately concluded the contest after two hours and 18 minutes in the Bavarian capital, despite the chilly and blustery conditions. This serves as a reminder that the ATP clay-court circuit is not an effortless feat to achieve, even on home soil. The German decisively increased his level during the tie-break, ensuring that he was able to advance with authority.

The 28-year-old, who has won the title in Munich on three previous occasions—in 2017, 2018, and last year—will now face Gabriel Diallo of Canada in the last 16 as he attempts to secure a record-breaking fourth title at the BMW Open in Bitpanda.