"The first match on clay is never easy" - Zverev reflects after win over Sonego

Alexander Zverev kicked off his clay-court campaign on Wednesday at the Monte-Carlo Open, defeating Lorenzo Sonego to advance to the third round.

The German required an hour and 38 minutes to battle past his opponent, securing a 6-3 6-3 victory. Sonego was coming off a title win at last week's Sardegna Open, but was unable to channel his momentum into a victory against the World No.6.

“Lorenzo just won a tournament, so he is obviously in very good form right now and playing good tennis," Zverev said after the match. "The first match on a clay courts is never easy, but I am happy to be through like that."

Having reached the Monte-Carlo semifinals in 2018, the 23-year old is hoping to win his fourth ATP Masters 1000 title this week. He next faces Belgian David Goffin, who defeated 2018 Roland Garros semifinalist Marco Cecchinato 6-4 6-0 earlier in the day.

“Goffin is extremely difficult to beat, especially during the first few matches on clay,” Zverev said. “I think he feels extremely comfortable on this surface, so it is going to be interesting to see how that goes. Every time we have played it has been three sets. I am expecting a very difficult match.”