Alexander Zverev, the top seed, put an end to American hopes on Sunday by defeating Ben Shelton in a four‑set final to capture his first US Open crown. The German displayed superior play, overcoming the eighth‑seeded American 6‑3, 7‑6 (7‑2), 5‑7, 6‑2 at Flushing Meadows. This triumph adds a New York title to Zverev’s résumé, which already includes a French Open win earlier in the season. The climax of the match was oddly theatrical.
On championship point, Shelton’s return sailed long, yet Zverev, apparently unaware that the point had sealed the match, bounced the ball back for another rally. Only after glancing at the stadium screen did he realize he had already secured victory. Zverev’s career achievements now read: two Grand Slam titles, an Olympic gold medal, two ATP Finals championships, seven Masters 1000 titles, 26 tour‑level singles titles, and a stint as world No.
1 – with many speculating a return to the top spot may be imminent. In his post‑match interview with Sky Sports Tennis, Zverev reflected on the emotional journey of his family at the Grand Slam level. “There has been a lot of suffering for the Zverev family at majors; maybe 2026 is the year we finally enjoy it,” he said, smiling.
“Everything is falling into place and I’m unbelievably happy.” He added, “If three months ago someone had told me I’d win only one Grand Slam in my career, I would have signed that paper without hesitation. Standing here with two majors in a few months feels surreal.” When asked about his brief confusion on the final point, Zverev laughed, “I thought the score was 5‑1.
I knew I’d broken him twice but assumed he’d held once. I was planning a relaxed service game and then to get aggressive on the next. It turned out to be lucky for me! Coaches always tell us to play each point and ignore the score – I ignored it and it actually helped.” Shelton entered the final hoping to become the first American man to win a Grand Slam singles title since Andy Roddick’s 2003 US Open triumph, and only the second Black man to claim a major after Arthur Ashe’s historic 1975 victory.
He was welcomed by a thunderous ovation from a crowd of roughly 23,000 spectators, many of whom were gathered in a stadium bearing Ashe’s name. Among the on‑court celebrities were actors Brad Pitt and Rami Malek, as well as former James Bond star Pierce Brosnan, who was caught on camera with the match clock displaying a mere 0.07 seconds.
Zverev’s path to the final was grueling: he logged 19 hours and 38 minutes on court throughout the tournament, the fourth‑longest total for a player reaching a Grand Slam final since 1991. He started strongly, breaking Shelton’s serve in the opening game and again on set point, establishing early dominance. Shelton struggled to generate break opportunities in the first two sets as Zverev, playing as the No. 1 seed for the first time at a major, used his powerful serve to keep the American at bay.
Historically, Shelton had never beaten Zverev, losing all five of their previous encounters. He also arrived in New York without a victory over either Stefanos Tsitsipas or the tournament favorite Carlos Alcaraz – both milestones he achieved during this US Open run, fueling his confidence heading into the final. After shedding the label of “the best player never to win a major” with his French Open success, Zverev approached the second‑set tiebreak with freedom, sweeping it to move within a set of the title. Shelton fought back in the third, creating three break points and eventually converting the second to force a fourth set.
However, Zverev’s momentum proved decisive; he broke early in the final set and, despite occasional ball‑bouncing violations – he spent roughly three hours of his total court time bouncing between serves – he maintained composure and closed the match in 3 hours and 33 minutes. Off‑court drama added a human touch: Shelton’s girlfriend, soccer star Trinity Rodman, made a 200‑mile dash from a Washington football field to Queens, arriving just in time to join him in his box. Unfortunately for her, Zverev’s victory meant her journey ended without a title celebration. In his emotional victory speech, Zverev thanked his mother, Irina, a former professional player who refused to let his type‑1 diabetes define his future.
“When doctors told us a four‑year‑old with diabetes would have limited sporting prospects, my mother insisted he could be whatever he wanted. Her strength helped me overcome that diagnosis and pursue tennis at the highest level,” he said, praising her as the strongest person he knows. He also paid tribute to Shelton, noting, “Ben, you’re an amazing player and a great person.
This was your first Grand Slam final, but I’ve already told you you’ll be back many more times. If I had to bet all my money, I’d bet you’ll lift this trophy one day.” The head‑to‑head record now stands at 6‑0 in Zverev’s favor, marking his 26th career title and 60th win over a top‑10 opponent. Shelton, still youthful and hungry, responded graciously: “Sascha, congratulations on two Grand Slams in two weeks. Your serve, movement, and work ethic are incredible.
You and your team do everything the right way, and I’m genuinely happy for you. This is just the beginning for me; I’ll be back.” Former British No. 1 Tim Henman praised Zverev’s evolution, saying, “His perseverance and the way his game has improved over the past year are remarkable. He turned a backward‑sliding Grand Slam record into an aggressive, winning style.
He’s beaten Ben five times in a row, and today he looked completely at ease.” Former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli highlighted the experience gap, noting, “The difference in experience was massive. Ben won the toss, served, fell to 30‑30, missed an easy shot and double‑faulted, giving Zverev the first break.
It’s hard to perform your first Grand Slam final in front of a home crowd, but Zverev made only one unforced error in the opening set, making it extremely difficult for Ben.” The match was broadcast worldwide via Sky Sports and the NOW platform, with additional coverage available on the Sky Sports app for viewers without a contract. The US Open final will be remembered not only for Zverev’s historic win but also for the narrative of resilience, family support, and the promise of future American breakthroughs.