Djokovic and Zverev can put one foot in the semi-finals with a victory after both winning their opening ties, against John Isner and Marin Cilic, respectively.
The pair share one win each from their two previous meetings but Djokovic will hold the mental advantage having won 6-2, 6-1 in Shanghai last time out.
However, the Serbian is expecting a tougher challenge this time around against one of the NextGen’s brightest stars.
“Playing Zverev, who also had a straight-sets win, I look forward to that,” Djokovic said.
“It should be a great match. I think we played against each other only twice. We split wins.
“I played him recently in Shanghai, but wasn’t at his best.
“I expect him to play better than he did in Shanghai.
“I’m not too exhausted. I’m feeling fit physically and mentally. I’m looking forward to that match.”
Novak Djokovic vs Alexander Zverev LIVE
(* denotes server)
Novak Djokovic 2-2 Alexander Zverev*
Magnificent defence from Djokovic, twice returning thumping volleys before Zverev fires long for 0-15.
The German moves into the net to try and force the next point, and after a couple of good reaction shots, he fires into the net.
Zverev delivers the first ace of the match before rallying to hold.
*Novak Djokovic 2-1 Alexander Zverev
Djokovic is aggressive with his groundstrokes to take the first three points but then he produces a rare double fault.
A third fault follows forcing the Serbian to deliver a tame second serve but Zverev is unable to capitalise and the pair trade shots from the baseline until the German fires into the net.
Novak Djokovic 1-1 Alexander Zverev*
Zverev’s serve is bang on form and even Djokovic’s best defensive work is unable to stop this game passing him by.
After storming into a commanding 40-15 lead, Zverev thunders a delivery wide before sending the next passing shot the other way.
Djokovic does well get both efforts back in play but Zverev then volleys a winner.
*Novak Djokovic 1-0 Alexander Zverev
Djokovic oozing with confidence from the beginning as Zverev fires long in the first proper rally of the match for 30-0.
The world No 1 then attempts a drop shot but Zverev reads it well, moving in quickly to smash a winner down with a forehand the line.
Djokovic ends up 40-30 up and Zverev wildly fires into the tramlines for an opening hold.
2.05pm: Bang on queue the players begin their walk from the changing room to the court.
Zverev comes through the sliding doors and smoke screen first as he is the lowest ranked player.
Djokovic then edges cheer-o-meter from the London faithful with his appearance.
1.55pm: Neither Djokovic nor Zverev can completely guarantee their place in the semi-finals directly after this match.
The pair must wait to see the outcome of Marin Cilic vs John Isner at 8pm tonight.
For Djokovic to progress he must win and hope Isner beats Cilic. Alternatively, if Cilic comes out on top against Isner in three sets, Djokovic must win in straight sets.
For Zverev to go through he must beat Djokovic and hope Cilic beats Isner. Zverev can also progress is Isner beats Cilic in three sets, so long as the German wins in straight sets.
Easy, right?
1.45pm: Mike Bryan and Jack Sock have just secured their second doubles win of the tournament against Oliver Marach and Mate Pavic here on Centre Court.
Now the crowd is really starting to get excited as we await the world No 1’s arrival.
Djokovic was handed his year-end ranking trophy earlier this week and gave an emotional speech thanking his friends, family and fans.
But now he wants to complete his incredible season by winning his sixth ATP Finals event – equalling Roger Federer’s record.
1.30pm: Good afternoon and welcome to the O2 Arena where we have the rare opportunity of seeing Djokovic play in the afternoon session.
Only evening supporters have so far witness Djokovic or Federer in action and it is expected to continue like that for the remainder of the tournament.
But the today’s daytime fans have been given been offered up a treat as they watch two of the tournament favourites go to battle.
The pair are due on court around 2pm and it will take an almighty effort from Zverev if he is to stop the most in-form player in the world.
