Nitto ATP Finals: Alexander Zverev Denies Rafael Nadal Chance To Reach Semi-finals

Rafael won a thrilling match against Stefanos Tsitsipas in three sets, 6-7(4), 6-4, 7-5 but his hope of reaching the semi-finals ended on a disappointing note, as Alexander Zverev who in later draw defeated Daniil Medvedev in straight sets, 6-4, 7-6(7).

Defending champion Zverev and Nadal both belong to Group Adrea Agassi which the seventh-seeded player finished second of having improved 2-1 with 4-2 sets. In effect, Nadal dropped to third place improving 2-1 (4-4) and technically did not make it out of the group.

"I've still got to improve," Zverev said. "We're in the semi-final now and it doesn't get any easier from here. I'm going to have to play my best tennis to have a chance."

Dropping out of the championship will not cost Nadal the world number one ranking for his fifth time, only that he is the one player amongst the Big3 who is yet to win a season-ending championship title.

The 22-year-old have been drawn against Austrian player Dominic Thiem who finished second of Group Bjorn Borg behind the six-time champion Roger Federer who led with 2-1 (4-2) and will take on Tsitsipas in the semi-finals on Saturday.