TC Plus Match of the Day: Zverev vs. Auger-Aliassime, Beijing

Understandably dubbed by many “the next big thing” in men’s tennis, 19-year-old Canadian phenom Felix Auger-Aliassime finally put an end to his near two-month long losing streak with a welcome straight-set victory over Albert Ramos-Vinolas on Tuesday in Beijing.

Now, the huge-hitting Auger-Aliassime will try for some revenge Thursday against Alexander Zverev, who handled him, 6-1, 6-4, in the Monte Carlo second round this past April.

These days, it's tough to make an immediate impact on tour after turning pro. Rafael Nadal was the last male teenager to win a Grand Slam at the 2005 French Open. Before that, it was a 19-year-old Pete Sampras who triumphed at the 1990 US Open. It’s possible another male teen could breakthrough on the big stage, but it’s becoming increasingly unlikely.

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Ups and downs are normal for the young players, as recent advances in sports science and recovery have undoubtedly prolonged many careers. Auger-Aliassime’s opponent knows a thing or two about ups and downs. Zverev, currently sitting at No. 11 in the Race to London, has not been able to build off winning the ATP Finals crown last November. Luckily for the German, he still has time to climb back into contention for a shot at defending that title if he can put together a strong showing in China over the next two weeks.

Will Auger-Aliassime’s blistering forehand or Zverev’s beautiful backhand gain the upper hand? It will likely come down to the serve. They say you are only as good as your second serve, and both players have a double-fault problem. Zverev ranks second behind Benoit Paire in average double faults per match, while Auger-Aliassime sits just behind the German in fourth place.

The oddsmakers favor Zverev, but not overwhelmingly. Maybe they think a weekend's worth of Fedal coaching gives him a slight advantage. It certainly doesn't hurt.