Image Source: BBC
Alexander Zverev moved closer to another Grand Slam final on Friday night, but Karen Khachanov fought back strongly in a tense US Open men’s semi-final at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The top-seeded German took the opening set 6-3 and reached 4-4 in the second set at the latest update, with the contest continuing under the New York lights. Zverev was serving as the match entered a crucial stage, while Khachanov attempted to prevent the match from slipping away.
Alexander Zverev Seizes Early Control
Zverev made the stronger start and looked comfortable from the baseline during the opening set. His first serve proved particularly effective, allowing him to dictate rallies and keep Khachanov under pressure. The German repeatedly pushed his opponent deep behind the baseline before finishing points with powerful groundstrokes.
Khachanov struggled to find a consistent response. BBC commentary noted that he was reluctant to move forward, allowing longer exchanges to develop. Zverev eventually created two set points and needed only one, as the Russian sent a shot long after another extended rally.
The first set ended 6-3 in Zverev’s favour. Former British number one Annabel Croft said the German had not necessarily produced “lights out” tennis, but had remained solid and gone about his business effectively.
Explosive Second-Set Fightback from Khachanov
The second set initially followed a similar pattern. Zverev broke at the start after Khachanov produced a loose service game, giving the German an early 1-0 lead. At that point, Khachanov had made 14 unforced errors, twice as many as Zverev.
However, the Russian began stepping closer to the baseline and hitting with greater authority. That tactical change disrupted Zverev’s rhythm and helped Khachanov apply pressure during rallies. He also began finding more aggressive angles, including a backhand pass and a clean down-the-line winner.
Khachanov earned two break points at 30-15 in Zverev’s service game. Zverev saved one opportunity with a powerful serve, but then double-faulted, handing the break back and bringing the second set level at 2-2.
The momentum shifted again as Khachanov held serve and forced Zverev to work harder in his own games. One rally stretched to 32 shots, with both men trading heavy blows from the baseline. Croft described the exchange as one of the best points of the match and suggested it could change the direction of the contest.
High-Stakes Battle for a Place in the Final
Zverev responded with a 140mph serve and an athletic overhead winner at the net, showing the variety that had helped him control the opening set. He also won 86% of points behind his first serve, an important advantage against Khachanov’s powerful return game.
Still, the German appeared increasingly frustrated as the second set developed. He began making more unforced errors and was heard disputing calls or speaking towards his team. Khachanov, meanwhile, appeared more confident after recovering the early break.
The latest score left Zverev serving at 4-4 in the second set. The German remained in front overall, but Khachanov had transformed what looked like a one-sided semi-final into a fiercely competitive contest.
- Zverev won the first set 6-3.
- Khachanov recovered an early break in the second set.
- Zverev had won 86% of first-serve points at the latest update.
- The winner will face Frances Tiafoe or Ben Shelton in Sunday’s final.
The other semi-final carries major significance for American tennis, with Tiafoe and Shelton seeking to become the first American man in 23 years to win a Grand Slam singles title. For Zverev, victory would secure another major final and keep his pursuit of a first Grand Slam singles title alive.
Record US Open Prize Fund Adds Extra Spotlight
The semi-final is taking place during a US Open edition offering the biggest prize fund in Grand Slam history. The tournament’s total purse is $108m, a 20% increase on the previous year. The men’s and women’s singles champions will each receive $5.5m.
That financial milestone adds to the attention surrounding a match already packed with sporting consequences. Zverev is trying to protect his position as the leading seed, while Khachanov is attempting to reach his first major final after losing in the semi-final at two previous Grand Slam tournaments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the latest score in the Alexander Zverev match?
At the latest update, Zverev led Khachanov 6-3, 4-4, with Zverev serving in the second set.
Who is Alexander Zverev playing?
Zverev is playing Karen Khachanov of Russia in the US Open men’s singles semi-final.
Who will the winner face?
The winner will meet either Frances Tiafoe or Ben Shelton in Sunday’s final.
How much is the US Open singles winner’s prize?
The singles champions will each receive $5.5m from the tournament’s record $108m prize fund.
