Zverev's US Open Victory Caps Transformational Year
Entering the 2026 season, few predicted Zverev would win two Grand Slam tournaments. The German had previously lost three major finals, with his career seeming unlikely to meet expectations.
However, injuries to his main rivals – Alcaraz missing the French Open and Wimbledon, and Sinner out of the US Open – created an opening for Zverev.
Despite a slow start at Flushing Meadows, with early matches finishing in the early morning, Zverev improved throughout the tournament. He didn't face a top-20 opponent until Shelton.
Zverev had a strong record against Shelton, winning all five previous encounters. He immediately capitalized on his opponent's tentative start.
Shelton double-faulted on break point in the first game, giving Zverev an advantage that opponents rarely recover from.
Zverev dominated the first set with a powerful first serve and by exploiting Shelton's weaker backhand in baseline rallies. He clinched the set when Shelton committed another double fault on set point.
Zverev continued to force errors from Shelton in the second set. Although he had one break point opportunity in the fourth game, he didn't convert it.
He then showcased his strong tie-break record with a composed performance. Unlike the 2020 US Open final, where he lost a two-set lead, Zverev maintained his focus under pressure to secure a decisive victory.
Addressing his team, including his father Alexander Sr. and brother Mischa, Zverev stated: "We went 30 years without winning a Grand Slam title and now won two in the span of three months."
"I think God has seen how hard we have worked, how hard we have suffered and how much pain we went through."
"I think 2026 is the outcome of all the years that happened before."
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