Alexander Zverev continued his march toward a second Grand Slam crown by dispatching the Dutch contender Botic van de Zandschulp with a commanding 6-2, 7-5, 6-1 victory, securing his place in the US Open semi‑finals. The 29‑year‑old, who already boasts a French Open title and a Wimbledon final appearance, began his Flushing Meadows campaign on shaky ground but has gradually found his rhythm as the tournament progressed. Zverev’s opening two matches both stretched to five sets, testing his stamina and mental resilience. Since then, however, he has dominated his subsequent three opponents in straight sets, becoming the sole male player this year to reach the semi‑final stage at all four Grand Slam events.
The German now moves into his thirteenth major semi‑final, where he will meet fellow Russian Karen Khachanov for a coveted spot in Sunday’s championship match. Reflecting on his early performances, Zveriv admitted, "In the first two rounds I wasn’t at my best.
I didn’t play well," noting that he has already logged 16 hours and 40 minutes on court – the longest cumulative time for any man to reach the US Open semi‑finals since 1991. "In other tournaments I might have been knocked out in the first round, but here I can battle through five‑set matches and endure four‑and‑a‑half hour contests.
I’ve improved as the week has gone on, and I’m thrilled to be in the semi‑finals." His semi‑final opponent, Van de Zandschulp, struggled with an inconsistent serve early on, committing five double faults as Zverev’s rhythm began to settle. The Dutchman’s forehand errors allowed the top seed to break in the fifth game and claim the opening set comfortably.
Although Van de Zandschulp rallied in the second set and threatened to level the match, Zverev absorbed the pressure, stringing together three consecutive games toward the end of the set and shifting momentum decisively in his favor. In the third set, Zverev displayed his trademark aggression, delivering a decisive overhead smash to break early and then cruising to close out the set and the match. The win marks his third semi‑final appearance at the US Open, reinforcing his status as one of the tournament’s most consistent performers this season. Meanwhile, Karen Khachanov earned his semi‑final berth after Alexander Blockx retired while trailing 6-2, 7-5, 3-2.
The world No. 50’s advancement represents his first appearance in a Grand Slam semi‑final since the 2023 Australian Open.
Blockx, the first Belgian man to reach the US Open quarter‑finals, entered the match with a pre‑existing rib injury and was further hampered by an ankle brace and a thigh wrap. He also called for his trainer during the contest, underscoring the physical toll the tournament had taken on him. Khachanov, who last reached a major semi‑final in Melbourne, said on court, "I prepared very well for this matchup. It wasn’t easy because I felt I was dominating at times, but then I sensed his struggle increasing.
He was suffering, but I wanted to keep the energy high. I wish him a speedy recovery and I’m very happy to be in the semi‑finals." The US Open continues to draw global attention, with live coverage on Sky Sports starting August 30.
Fans can also stream matches without a contract via NOW and the Sky Sports app. In addition to the men’s singles drama, the tournament features a host of other storylines: the British doubles teams of Neal Skupski and Alfie Hewett clinching their respective titles, Elena Rybakina solidifying her world No. 1 ranking by defeating two‑time champion Aryna Sabalenka, and the much‑anticipated final between Zverev and American Ben Shelton, who is relishing his first Grand Slam final appearance. As the competition intensifies, players must navigate not only their opponents but also the physical demands of best‑of‑five set tennis on the hard courts of Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Zverev’s journey exemplifies the blend of skill, endurance, and mental fortitude required to succeed at this level. His ability to recover from a tentative start, adapt his game plan, and dominate when it matters most serves as a blueprint for aspiring champions.
Looking ahead, the semi‑final clash between Zverev and Khachanov promises a compelling contrast of styles: Zverev’s powerful baseline play and precise serve versus Khachanov’s aggressive shot‑making and experience in high‑pressure matches. Both athletes have demonstrated resilience throughout the tournament, and their encounter will likely hinge on who can maintain composure during pivotal moments. Regardless of the outcome, Zverev’s performance at the 2026 US Open underscores his evolution as a top‑tier competitor capable of contending for multiple major titles. His steady improvement after early setbacks, combined with his record‑breaking court time, highlights a player who not only possesses raw talent but also the determination to refine his game under the brightest lights of the tennis world.
Fans worldwide can continue to follow the action live, with updates, scores, and commentary available across multiple platforms, ensuring that the excitement of the US Open remains accessible to a global audience throughout the remainder of the tournament.