Alexander Zverev beats Valentin Royer to reach Wimbledon third round
Alexander Zverev believes a maiden Wimbledon title is possible this year after the German second seed breezed past Valentin Royer to reach the third round.
The recently crowned French Open champion defeated his 75th-ranked opponent 6-1 6-3 7-6 (7-3) in just over two hours on the grass courts of SW19.
He will now face American Marcos Giron as he continues his pursuit of back-to-back Grand Slam triumphs.
Despite never progressing beyond the fourth round at the All England Club, the 29-year-old is riding a significant wave of momentum.
French Open triumph fuels confidence
The German star ended his long wait for a major trophy last month by defeating Flavio Cobolli on the Parisian clay.
That landmark victory has fundamentally altered his mindset arriving in London as a reigning Slam champion.
“It builds confidence when you win in straight sets, especially at Wimbledon where I am still waiting for a big result,” said Zverev.
“If I continue playing like this, I think it is definitely possible this year.”
Dominant display features late wobble
The towering right-hander was in ruthless form during the early exchanges, winning nine consecutive games after Royer held his opening serve.
He did not face a single break point until stumbling with a double fault while leading 4-3 in the third set.
Royer seized the rare opportunity to force a tie-break, but the recent major winner quickly regained his composure to seal the match.
“The next tournament is always round the corner. I won the French Open, which I’ve been waiting for such a long time and was such a big relief, but two weeks later we’re here at Wimbledon.”
“It’s such a short turnaround. You have to remember that you can and have done it, but have to take every match at 100%.”
Fritz and De Minaur advance
Elsewhere in the men’s draw, Taylor Fritz secured his place in the next round with a 6-2 6-2 7-5 victory over fellow American Patrick Kypson.
The big-serving 11th seed notably defeated the recent French Open champion in the Halle Open final last month, proving his formidable credentials on grass.
Australian fifth seed Alex de Minaur also enjoyed a straightforward afternoon, dismissing French veteran Adrian Mannarino 6-3 6-2 6-2.