Image Source: The New York Times
Karen Khachanov is under serious pressure in his 2026 U.S. Open semifinal against top seed Alexander Zverev, with the German taking the opening set 6-3 and moving ahead 1-0 in the second set. The match is being played at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York on September 11.
Zverev entered the contest as the highest-ranked player remaining in the men’s singles draw, while Khachanov arrived as the unseeded No. 50 player. The semifinal is also a rematch of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold-medal match, adding another layer to an already compelling contest.
Karen Khachanov Struggles as Zverev Seizes Control
The opening set began with both players trading holds, and Khachanov initially kept pace with the powerful German. However, the Russian’s return game showed early signs of vulnerability. He committed several forehand errors while attempting to attack Zverev’s serve from the baseline.
Zverev gradually found his rhythm, using a combination of heavy groundstrokes, precise serving and changing shot selection to disrupt Khachanov. The top seed also mixed in a drop shot and moved forward confidently, refusing to allow his opponent to settle into long baseline exchanges.
With the set level at 3-3, Zverev created the first meaningful opening. He attacked Khachanov’s service game with a forehand smash and forced errors during a lengthy rally. A double fault from Khachanov helped bring the game to deuce before two more unforced errors handed Zverev the break.
The German then served out the set without facing significant danger. Khachanov ended the set with three unforced errors, while Zverev maintained a remarkable run of 36 consecutive service holds, according to the ESPN broadcast cited in The Athletic’s live coverage.
Powerful Serving Gives Zverev a Major Advantage
Zverev’s serve was one of the defining elements of the early match. He repeatedly reached speeds of 130 mph and used wide deliveries to open the court. When Khachanov threatened, Zverev responded with timely aces and aggressive first-ball tennis.
The top seed also impressed at the net. He won his first six points when moving forward and later improved that record to nine victories from nine net points. That attacking approach gave Zverev another way to shorten rallies and prevented Khachanov from relying solely on his baseline power.
At one stage, Zverev had won 87 percent of points behind his first serve. Khachanov, meanwhile, struggled to land his first deliveries in a key service game, missing all six attempts and allowing Zverev to earn another break point early in the second set.
Khachanov Faces Critical Second-Set Challenge
After dropping the first set, Khachanov needed an immediate response. Instead, Zverev continued his momentum by breaking at the start of the second set. Khachanov made another costly error, allowing the German to claim a fourth consecutive game and move ahead 1-0.
The situation is not beyond repair for Khachanov, but the margin for error is shrinking. His best chance remains his ability to control rallies with his forehand and apply pressure on Zverev’s second serve. To change the match, he must improve his return position and reduce the unforced errors that have repeatedly extended Zverev’s advantage.
Khachanov is attempting to reach his first Grand Slam final. He previously reached the U.S. Open semifinals in 2022, but advancing one step further would represent the biggest achievement of his major career. Zverev, the reigning French Open champion, is seeking his sixth Grand Slam final appearance.
What to Watch as the Semifinal Continues
- Khachanov’s forehand: He needs greater control from the baseline and fewer unforced errors.
- Zverev’s first serve: The German’s serving numbers have kept Khachanov from generating consistent break chances.
- Net play: Zverev’s perfect start at the net has added an important attacking dimension.
- Second-set response: Khachanov must stop Zverev’s momentum quickly to remain in contention.
The semifinal also carried a reflective tone before play began. Arthur Ashe Stadium held a moment of silence honoring the victims of the September 11 attacks, marking the 25th anniversary of the tragedy. The ceremony preceded the match as part of the USTA’s tributes throughout the day.
Woody Harrelson and Matthew McConaughey were also in attendance for the first men’s semifinal, drawing attention from fans before the contest settled into its intense rhythm. For now, though, the focus remains on whether Karen Khachanov can recover from a difficult start or whether Zverev will continue marching toward the U.S. Open final.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Karen Khachanov playing in the U.S. Open semifinal?
Karen Khachanov is playing Alexander Zverev, the top seed in the men’s singles draw.
What was the first-set score?
Alexander Zverev won the opening set 6-3 after earning the only break of the set.
What is Karen Khachanov trying to achieve?
Khachanov is trying to reach his first Grand Slam final after previously making the U.S. Open semifinals in 2022.
What was Zverev’s major strength early in the match?
Zverev’s serving, aggressive shot selection and perfect net-play record helped him establish control.
Where is the semifinal being played?
The match is being played at Arthur Ashe Stadium during the 2026 U.S. Open.
