Zverev Survives Five-Set Marathon in US Open First Round
Zverev, the top seed, needed five sets and nearly five hours to dispatch unseeded Lorenzo Sonego in his US Open opener. He struggled with uncharacteristic errors and converted only five of 27 break points, but his serving kept him alive. The match ended just before 2 a.m., with Zverev winning the final set 6-4.
Zverev's opening-round struggle marked an unusually difficult start for a top seed, as his head-to-head dominance over Sonego had suggested a routine victory. His poor break point conversion and erratic backhand were notable departures from his typical form, though his serve remained a reliable weapon throughout the late-night contest.
The match extended Zverev's demanding 2026 campaign, which has included two Grand Slam finals. After claiming his first major title at the French Open, he reached the Wimbledon final before suffering early exits in Toronto and Cincinnati, raising questions about his consistency heading into the later rounds of this tournament.
This result could influence how fans and analysts assess Zverev's title chances, as surviving a five-set opener against an unseeded opponent may signal vulnerability or simply reflect the unpredictability of Grand Slam tennis. His late-night finish may also affect his recovery schedule, potentially shaping his performance in subsequent rounds. For casual viewers, such marathon matches can increase engagement with the tournament, while for bettors and commentators, the outcome may shift expectations about the men's draw.