QUEENS, N.Y. – In a decisive four‑set victory, Germany’s Alexander Zverev secured his second career Grand Slam title at the US Open, beating American Ben Shelton 6‑3, 7‑6 (2), 5‑7, 6‑2 on Sunday. Zverev’s triumph extends the 23‑year drought for American men in major tournaments, a streak that began after Andy Roddick’s 2003 win at Flushing Meadows.
Match Overview
Zverev entered the final as the tournament’s No. 1 seed – his first time holding that top spot in a Grand Slam. He opened the match strongly, capitalizing on Shelton’s tentative start to take the opening set 6‑3. The second set featured a tightly contested tiebreak, where Zverev displayed near‑flawless serving and clinched the set 7‑6 (2).
Shelton rallied in the third set, breaking Zverev’s serve to claim the set 7‑5 and briefly reviving hopes of an American breakthrough. However, Zverev regrouped, broke early in the fourth set and held his serve to close out the match 6‑2, sealing his place among the sport’s elite.
Historical Context
The win marks Zverev’s second major title of the season, following his French Open victory earlier this year. It also underscores the continued challenge American men face in securing Grand Slam crowns – the last being Roddick’s 2003 US Open triumph. Additionally, Shelton’s appearance would have been the first US Open title for a Black man since Arthur Ashe’s 1968 victory, highlighting the broader cultural significance of the final.
Player Reactions
After the match, Zverev raised his arms in celebration, acknowledging the crowd’s enthusiastic support. He noted, “I didn’t realize I’d won until a few moments later, but it feels amazing to bring this title home after working so hard.” Shelton, gracious in defeat, praised Zverev’s performance and expressed confidence that his own career is still on an upward trajectory.
Implications for the Tour
Zverev’s back‑to‑back major victories place him firmly in the conversation for year‑end rankings and cement his status as a leading figure in men’s tennis. For American tennis, Shelton’s run to the final signals a promising new generation, even as the nation continues to seek its next Grand Slam champion.
Looking Ahead
With the US Open now concluded, the ATP tour will shift focus to the indoor season and the upcoming ATP Finals, where Zverev will look to add another prestigious title to his résumé. American fans will be watching closely as Shelton prepares for the next season, hoping he can translate his breakthrough performance into future success.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
