Bavarian International 2024: Alexander Zverev vs Cristian Garín; Preview, Head-to-Head, Prediction

The Bavarian International quarterfinal will feature the local favorite Alexander Zverev as he looks to overcome Cristian Garín. Zverev had the misfortune to face Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Monte-Carlo Masters as the Greek player put an end to his great form in 2024 in straight sets. Garín missed the Monte-Carlo Masters but ran to the semifinal of the Estoril Open.

The tournament displayed Garín’s best performance this year. The Chilean player will step into the clash with Zverev, aiming to produce similar results and surprise the tennis world in Munich.  

Alexander Zverev vs Cristian Garín: Preview

Zverev faced Jurij Rodionov in the round of 16 of the Bavarian International and won 7-6, 6-2. Despite hitting only 1 ace, he landed 75% of first serves and won 76% of points while winning 59% on second serves. While the hail stopped the match at 5-4 in the first set, Zverev managed to close out the set and win five games in a row in the second set. He also saved four break points while winning 2, showing his calm mindset is intact in Munich.

Garín won the round of 32 against Dominik Koepfer 7-6, 6-3 and then defeated Alex Michelsen 6-7, 6-2, 6-1. He has hit eight aces so far but only won 67% of first serves against Michelsen. He showed some difficulty in closing breakpoints, as he won 8 out of 19 and gave away 3 to the American. Garín also won five games in a row. Although he lost a set, his performance in the latter two sets shows he can prove to be a challenge for Zverev.

Zverev vs Garín: Head-to-Head

Zverev and Garín have played each other twice and are tied 1-1 when it comes to their rivalry. The Bavarian International held their first meeting, where Garín was the victor 6-5, 5-7, 7-5. The quarterfinal of the 2022 Italian Open would be the venue of their second clash, where Zverev had his revenge 7-5, 6-2.

Both have equal victories on clay against each other, with Zverev winning the more recent bout. The two will settle their differences on clay once again, where the German player has a chance to take revenge and gain the upper hand on the Chilean.

Prediction: Zverev to reach Munich semifinals after two years of bad luck 

Zverev will beat the Chilean player on one of his favorite surfaces to send him packing. The German won his first match in Munich for the first time in three years and looks set to win his second clash as well. His early loss in Monte-Carlo was an unfortunate event as he met the reformed Tsitsipas. He has shown his best record on clay, which means he is even more dangerous here. Zverev has managed only one ace in Munich, but his service shows why he is one of the best servers on tour.

Garín can exploit Zverev’s second serve but will face difficulty returning his blazing fast first serve. Additionally, Garín’s issue in keeping a hold of the game will also Zverev advance. The Chilean player will provide a good challenge as he is right now, but to win, he needs to keep a grip on the match in every game, which will not be possible against the German’s aggressive play.