German tennis star, Alexander Zverev, has won his first US Open title after defeating American eighth seed Ben Shelton in four sets in Sunday’s final at Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York.
The top seed prevailed 6-3, 7-6 (2), 5-7, 6-2 in a three-hour, 33-minute contest to claim the second Grand Slam title of his career. Zverev had earlier won his maiden major at Roland Garros in June.
The victory capped a remarkable season for the 29-year-old, who finished the year with a 25-2 record in Grand Slam matches.
He also collected $5.5m in prize money, matching women’s champion Elena Rybakina’s record haul from the tournament.
Zverev controlled the opening set after breaking away to a 3-1 advantage, with Shelton unable to make enough impact with his usually powerful serve.
The German then held his nerve in a tight second set, racing to a 5-0 lead in the tie-break before taking it 7-6 (2).
Shelton, 23, refused to surrender and produced his best tennis in the third set as the home crowd rallied behind him.
The American moved ahead 4-3 before eventually taking the set 7-5 to force a fourth.
However, Zverev quickly regained control in the deciding set and closed it out 6-2.
Shelton’s failure to return serve on championship point initially appeared to catch the German by surprise before he realised he had secured the biggest title of his career.
Despite playing in front of a crowd largely backing Shelton, Zverev thanked the spectators for creating an electric atmosphere throughout the tournament.
“It was an incredible atmosphere to play in, even though the crowd was against me. You guys brought the energy and noise,” Zverev said.
Shelton had been hoping to become the first American man since Andy Roddick in 2003 to win the US Open.
He was also chasing history as the first Black male player to claim the men’s title since Arthur Ashe in 1968.
After the defeat, Shelton remained positive and praised the people around him for their support throughout his career.
“My successes are a gift, my failures are a gift. Playing in front of you guys is a gift,” Shelton told the crowd after the match.
“I have the best support team in the business. To do this with my family by my side, these four guys over here who dedicate their life to my career, spend time travelling the world with me, it’s an unnatural commitment. I appreciate you guys.”
Shelton ended his speech with a promise to return to the stage and continue his pursuit of Grand Slam glory.
“I’m just getting started, I’ll be back here again.”
