**By Tomas Machac**
*Published: July 30, 2024 | 22:25*
*Last updated: July 31, 2024 | 19:24*
Defending Olympic champion Alexander Zverev is aiming for a spot in the Paris 2024 quarter-finals as he faces Alexei Popyrin in the third round on Wednesday.
Zverev advanced past Tomas Machac in Tuesday’s second-round match and will now play against Popyrin, who defeated 2008 doubles champion Stan Wawrinka in straight sets.
### **Match Preview**
Zverev is on track to replicate Andy Murray’s success by defending his Olympic title, having won his first two matches in straight sets in Paris. The German player first defeated Jaume Munar 6-2, 6-2 and then Tomas Machac 6-3, 7-5, continuing his unbeaten streak from the Tokyo Games.
The 27-year-old is on an eight-match winning streak and will need to navigate past Popyrin to maintain his quest for gold. Zverev’s performance in Tokyo, where he lost only one set throughout the tournament, has set high expectations for him. Should both players continue their winning ways, they could potentially meet in the semi-finals.
Although Zverev cannot afford to look too far ahead, he is determined to avoid an early exit in Paris. His expertise on clay surfaces makes him a strong favorite against Popyrin, who has also won both of his matches in straight sets.
Popyrin, competing in his first Olympics, is the underdog against the more experienced Zverev. However, the Australian, who has already defeated top-10 players this year, will be looking for a major upset.
### **Tournament So Far**
**Alexander Zverev:**
– First Round: Defeated Jaume Munar 6-2 6-2
– Second Round: Defeated Tomas Machac 6-3 7-5
**Alexei Popyrin:**
– First Round: Defeated Nicolas Jarry 6-3 7-6[5]
– Second Round: Defeated Stan Wawrinka 6-4 7-5
### **Head-to-Head**
– **Basel (2018) – Round of 16:** Zverev 6-4 6-4
– **Acapulco (2019) – Round of 32:** Zverev 6-3 6-3
Wednesday’s match will be the third encounter between Zverev and Popyrin, with Zverev winning both previous meetings without losing a set. Despite the five-year gap since their last match, Popyrin’s recent form and experience might provide him with a chance to challenge the German star.
### **Prediction**
Zverev is the defending champion and has consistently performed well at Roland Garros. Given his strong track record and current form, he is expected to win in two sets against the Olympic debutant as he aims for a place in the quarter-finals.
