Zverev wins US Open 2026, secures second Grand Slam title

Alexander Zverev beat American Ben Shelton 6-3, 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-2 on Sunday to win the US Open and claim his second Grand Slam title. The German top seed, who had lost the 2020 final, prevented Shelton from becoming the first American man to win a major title since 2003.

Zverev's victory at Arthur Ashe Stadium unfolded as he sought to distance himself from his previous defeat in Flushing Meadows, which had come at the hands of Dominic Thiem. This win added to the French Open title he captured earlier in 2026.

Shelton, only 23 years old, was hoping to end a 23-year drought for American men in Grand Slam tournaments. Last seen hoisting a Grand Slam trophy was Andy Roddick, who won the US Open in 2003. The moment seemed attainable for Shelton after his remarkable five-set victory over defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals, followed by a thrilling comeback win against compatriot Frances Tiafoe in the semi-finals.

Despite a raucous crowd supporting Shelton, Zverev's versatility ultimately proved too overpowering. After dropping the third set, Shelton looked to gain momentum by eliminating the errors that had plagued him previously. He broke Zverev's serve to take the third set and enter the fourth set with renewed energy. However, Zverev quickly regained control by breaking Shelton's serve in the opening game of the fourth set.

Even as the pressure from both the determined Shelton and the audience mounted, Zverev managed to shake off a time violation warning to secure a crucial game, ultimately leading to his title victory. Zverev celebrated as Shelton's return on match point flew long, marking a significant moment in his career.