New York – Alexander Zverev entered the US Open with doubts, describing his early matches as “pointless” because he felt he wasn’t performing at his best. Yet the German champion quickly turned the tide, winning his next four matches without dropping a set and now prepares for a second Grand Slam final at Flushing Meadows.
From a Rough Beginning to Dominant Play
Zverev’s first two rounds were grueling five‑set battles that tested his stamina and resolve. After surviving those marathon matches, he faced fellow German Karen Khachanov in the fourth round. Zverev dispatched Khachanov 6‑3, 7‑6(7), 7‑6(6), securing his place in the quarterfinals and keeping his momentum alive.
Speaking to reporters after the win, Zverev admitted his early mindset: “I really started off the tournament, and I was like, ‘Well, this is pointless because I’m not going to do anything here,’ and here I am sitting and preparing for a Sunday final.” His candid reflection underscores the mental resilience required to compete at the highest level.
Comparing to the 2020 Final
The 2020 US Open final saw Zverev battle Dominic Thiem in a tightly contested match, ultimately falling just two points short of his first Grand Slam title. Back then, Zverev described his performance as inconsistent, noting, “I didn’t play well that entire tournament. That never changed, funny enough, and I made it to the final, and I was two points away from winning.” Six years later, the top seed emphasizes how experience has reshaped his game.
“I was inexperienced. I was still a young guy,” Zverev reflected on his 2020 run. “Everything is different now after winning the Roland Garros title this year and learning from those big‑stage moments.” His recent success at the French Open gave him the confidence and tactical maturity needed to navigate the US Open’s challenges.
Final Opponent and Crowd Atmosphere
Zverev’s upcoming opponent will be an American—either Frances Tiafoe or Ben Shelton—determined in the semifinal later on Friday. The final will be played in a sold‑out Arthur Ashe Stadium, a stark contrast to the empty stands of the 2020 tournament, which took place without spectators due to the COVID‑19 pandemic.
“I think it’s going to be a fantastic feeling playing, you know, a final in a sold‑out Arthur Ashe and not in an empty one,” Zverev said. “For me, a loud and energetic crowd is always great, as long as they’re fair.” The enthusiastic New York crowd is expected to add to the drama of what could be Zverev’s second major championship.
Looking Ahead
With his recent form, Zverev has positioned himself as a strong contender for the title. His ability to rebound from early self‑doubt demonstrates the mental fortitude that separates champions from the rest of the field. As the US Open approaches its climax, fans nationwide will watch to see if Zverev can convert his resurgence into a second Grand Slam victory.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
