Zverev holds off Nakashima to reach Indian Wells fourth round
Zverev didn't have a break point against the 30th-ranked opponent until the third set. He missed his first two opportunities before finally making one count, breaking Nakashima in the final game to seal the victory.
"He has an incredible serve, and you don't think about that," Zverev said of Nakashima, who fired 17 aces to the German's 15. "His placement on serve is probably the best in the world.
"What he's lacking in power he's definitely got in placement. I was not having any chances to break...