Alexander Zverev advanced to the second round of the Paris Masters on Tuesday,, staying safe in the chance for a spot in the season-ending Tour finals.
The German put aside a slow start to produce a win over qualifier Marton Fucsovics 4-6, 7-5, 6-4, maintaining his seventh position in the eight-man field for the ATP Finals in Turin.
“It was just one or two points [that made the difference],” the winner said. “He was playing incredibly well and tactically he was unbelievable…
“It was a very difficult match and I am happy to be through. I found my level and I am happy with that.”
Zverev could be challenged in the race to the season showdown by eighth-placed Holger Rune and provisional No. 9 Taylor Fritz, who won his opening match here.
Zverev won the year-end trophy in 2018 and 2021 and is looking for his sixth appearance at the tournament.
Victory over Fucsovics took two and three-quarter hours, with Zverev posting his 52nd victory of the season.
