Zverev Outclasses Shelton to Claim US Open and Second Major

Alexander Zverev defeated Ben Shelton 6-3, 7-6 (7-2), 5-7, 6-2 on Sunday to win the US Open and secure his second Grand Slam title.

The top-seeded German, who came within two points of winning the 2020 US Open before losing a five-set final to Dominic Thiem, added the trophy to the French Open title he won earlier this year.

Zverev stopped Shelton from becoming the first American man in 23 years to lift a Grand Slam trophy.

Andy Roddick, then just a month away from his 22nd birthday, was the last American champion at Flushing Meadows after winning the 2003 US Open.

Shelton’s chances looked strong following an epic five-set quarter-final victory over defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and a comeback win against compatriot Frances Tiafoe in the semi-finals.

Despite the support of a star-studded Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd, Zverev’s confident all-court tennis proved too difficult for the 23-year-old American.

Encouraged by the crowd, Shelton gained momentum in the third set and reduced the errors that Zverev had exploited ruthlessly in the opening two games.

While serving to extend his lead, Zverev fell behind 0-40. Shelton sent his first set point long, but Zverev then volleyed wide on the second, giving Shelton the match’s first break and a route to a fourth set.

Zverev responded immediately, engaging Shelton in a 24-shot rally before the American pulled his backhand wide and surrendered his serve in the opening game of the decider.

Even with a break in hand, Zverev appeared to feel the pressure from Shelton’s determined play and the crowd’s support for the American.

At 30-30 in the fourth game, he received a time-violation warning while preparing to serve, but recovered to win the game with a sharp crosscourt backhand and take a 3-1 lead.

Zverev sealed the title when Shelton sent a return long on match point. He celebrated with arms raised as the crowd finally erupted in support of the German champion.

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