By Amofokhai Williams
Alexander Zverev captured his first US Open title and second Grand Slam of the year on Sunday, defeating American Ben Shelton 6-3, 7-6 (7-2), 5-7, 6-2 in a four-set final that showcased the German’s composure and mental strength under pressure.
The top seed, playing in his third consecutive Grand Slam final, overcame a partisan crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium and a determined challenge from eighth-seeded Shelton. Zverev had previously won the French Open in June, making Sunday’s triumph his second Grand Slam singles title.
Shelton entered the final seeking to become the first American man in 23 years to win a major singles title. Instead, the defeat extended his losing streak against Zverev to six consecutive matches.
The American was visibly disappointed at the conclusion, having fallen short on home soil, but his run to the final underlined his growing stature on the biggest stage.
Zverev made the stronger start, taking the opening set 6-3 before edging a tightly contested second-set tie-break 7-2.
Shelton responded in the third, producing a spirited fightback to win the set 7-5 and briefly revive hopes of a home triumph as the final stretched beyond three hours.
But Zverev quickly restored his authority in the fourth set. He broke twice to move 5-2 ahead before serving for the championship.
In an unusual moment after the final point, Zverev initially returned to the baseline as though preparing to serve again, apparently unaware that he had already won. Once the realization dawned, he opened his arms and celebrated with a broad smile.
The moment offered a rare glimpse of unrestrained emotion from a player whose demeanor throughout the final had been remarkably controlled.
Zverev’s consistency from the baseline proved decisive. He repeatedly used the middle of the court to reset rallies, absorbed Shelton’s power and maintained his concentration despite the pressure of the occasion, time violations and the noise from the crowd.
Shelton produced several moments of brilliance, particularly with his powerful forehand and aggressive net play, drawing energy from the home crowd. But as the contest wore on, the American struggled to sustain that intensity against Zverev’s relentless baseline pressure and powerful serving.
Zverev held his nerve when the crucial moments arrived, preventing Shelton from converting opportunities and ensuring the third-set setback remained only a temporary interruption to his control of the final.
After sealing the championship, Zverev embraced Shelton before turning to celebrate with his team.
