This content was published 7 years ago. It may refer to a past edition of the Internazionali d’Italia.

Fabio Fognini was unable to recreate the heroics he displayed in defeating world No. 1 Andy Murray on Tuesday night in his third round match against Alexander Zverev, falling to a straight sets defeat in Thursday’s opening Centre Court match.

Zverev produced a calm and measured performance to defeat the Italian 63 63 and become the first German to reach the quarterfinals at the Foro Italico since Tommy Haas in 2014.

“It was a great match for me. I think I played very well. Was very aggressive from the baseline, as well. Played a great match,” said Zverev. “I just felt like — I was feeling the ball very well and was very aggressive and it worked out well for me.

The world No. 17’s break to lead 3-1 in the first set was enough to secure him the opener and four straight games at the start of the second set put Zverev firmly in the driving seat in what was a frustrating performance from Fognini.

“My opponent played really good tennis, and the conditions was better for him, for sure,” admitted Fognini.

Next up for Zverev will be No. 5 seed Milos Raonic or No. 12 seed Tomas Berdych.