Zverev defeats Shelton in four sets to win his first US Open title

Alexander Zverev defeated Ben Shelton in four sets to claim the US Open men’s singles title in New York, prevailing 6-3, 7-6 (2), 5-7, 6-2. The German added a second major to his résumé this year, following his earlier French Open victory, and denied the home crowd the chance to see an American champion in Flushing Meadows.

Zverev, seeded No. 1 at a Grand Slam for the first time, took advantage of Shelton’s early nerves and delivered a strong tiebreak in the second set to move two sets ahead. Shelton mounted a response to take the third set 7-5, but Zverev regained control in the fourth to close out the match.

At the final point Zverev finished on his own serve but initially appeared unsure he had won, stepping back as if to return before realising and celebrating. He was emotional in his on‑court remarks, paying tribute to his coaching team and family and reflecting on the struggles that preceded his recent success. “We went 30 years without winning a Grand Slam title, and then won two in the span of three months,” he said, and added a remark recorded in the post‑match comments about 2026 being the outcome of what they had endured.

Zverev also spoke about his mother’s support after he was diagnosed with diabetes as a child, thanking her for helping him pursue the sport. He praised Shelton’s potential, saying the younger American will “win this tournament one day.” Shelton, 23, was sombre after the loss and emphasised the commitment of his family and team that helped him reach his first major final.