Zverev defeats Shelton to claim US Open title
Alexander Zverev beat Ben Shelton in the US Open final, winning his second Grand Slam of the year. The German top seed won 6-3, 7-6, 5-7, 6-2. Shelton was aiming to become the first American male major winner since 2003.
Zverev, 29, had previously lost three major finals, including a heartbreaking five-set defeat in the 2020 US Open final after leading by two sets. His victory at Roland Garros earlier in 2026 removed that burden, and he now holds two Grand Slam trophies. He remains ranked second but has narrowed the gap on Sinner.
Shelton, 23, was seeking to end a 23-year drought for American men at the majors. He struggled with his serve, double-faulting on break and set points in the opening set. Zverev's path was aided by injuries to top rivals Sinner and Alcaraz, and he faced no top-20 opponent until the final.
This result could reshape perceptions of Zverev, transforming him from a perennial finalist into a dominant force, potentially influencing how younger players view their own career trajectories. For American tennis fans, Shelton's runner-up finish may intensify the pressure on the next generation to end the major drought, while also providing a hopeful narrative. The injuries to Sinner and Alcaraz may lead some to question the strength of the field, but Zverev's consistent performance could reinforce his status as a top-tier champion.