Alexander Zverev continued his march toward a second Grand Slam crown by dispatching the Dutch competitor Botic van de Zandschulp in straight sets, 6-2 7-5 6-1, to secure a place in the US Open semifinals. The 29‑year‑old, who already boasts a French Open title and a Wimbledon final appearance, began his Flushing Meadows adventure with a modest start but has steadily found his rhythm as the tournament progressed. Zverev’s first two matches both stretched to five sets, testing his stamina and resolve. Since then, however, he has dominated his opponents in straight‑set victories, becoming the sole player to reach the semifinals of all four Grand Slam events this season.
Now, heading into his thirteenth major semifinal, he will meet fellow Russian Karen Khachanov, with a spot in Sunday’s final on the line. Reflecting on his early performances, Zverev admitted, “You saw in the first two rounds that I really didn’t play my best tennis.
I’ve logged 16 hours and 40 minutes on court – the most any man has spent to reach the US Open semifinals since 1991. In other events I might have been knocked out in round one, but here I could battle through five‑set matches and stay in the contest for four‑and‑a‑half hours. I’ve started to play better as the tournament has gone on, and I’m genuinely pleased to be among the last four.” The German’s service game was shaky at the start of the quarterfinal on Arthur Ashe Stadium, where he double‑faulted five times, giving Van de Zandschulp an early foothold. Nevertheless, the Dutchman’s forehand errors allowed Zverev to break in the fifth game and take the opening set comfortably.
After a tighter second set, where Van de Zandschulp rallied and threatened to even the match, Zverev steadied his nerves, stringing together three consecutive games toward the end of the set and seizing the momentum. In the decisive third set, Zverev unleashed a series of aggressive shots, including a crisp overhead smash that secured an early break.
From that point, the German champion coasted to the finish line, clinching his third semifinal appearance in New York without further trouble. Meanwhile, Khachanov’s path to the semifinals was marked by a different set of circumstances. He advanced after Alexander Blockx retired while trailing 6-2 7-5 3-2.
Blockx, the first Belgian man to reach the US Open quarterfinals, was hampered by a pre‑existing rib injury and additional physical issues that forced him to wear a brace on his right ankle and have his thigh wrapped. The 21‑year‑old also called for his trainer several times during the match. Khachanov, ranked No. 50 in the world, will be back in a Grand Slam semifinal for the first time since his Australian Open run in 2023.
Speaking after his victory, Khachanov said, “I prepared very well for this matchup. It’s not easy because I felt I was in control, but I could see him struggling more and more.
He was suffering, but I wanted to keep the intensity high. I wish him a speedy recovery and I’m thrilled to be in the semifinals.” The US Open continues to attract a global audience, with live coverage on Sky Sports beginning August 30. Fans can also stream matches without a contract via NOW and the Sky Sports app, and the tournament’s atmosphere extends beyond the courts, with events such as the Laver Cup scheduled at the O₂ in London from September 25‑27, also broadcast on Sky Sports.
As the semifinals approach, Zverev’s journey illustrates a narrative of perseverance: from grueling five‑set battles to commanding straight‑set wins, he has demonstrated both physical endurance and tactical adaptability. His ability to refine his serve, reduce unforced errors, and capitalize on his opponent’s weaknesses has been evident throughout the week.
If he can maintain this level of play against Khachanov, a player known for his powerful baseline game and mental toughness, Zverev will have a strong chance of reaching the final and possibly adding a second major title to his résumé. The upcoming semifinal promises a clash of contrasting styles – Zverev’s aggressive, all‑court approach versus Khachanov’s heavy groundstrokes and relentless pressure. Both athletes have expressed confidence and respect for each other's abilities, setting the stage for a compelling encounter that could shape the remainder of the 2026 Grand Slam season.
Regardless of the outcome, Zverev’s performance at Flushing Meadows underscores his status as one of the sport’s premier competitors and a genuine contender for the championship crown.