Breaking: Alexander Zverev Takes Early US Open Lead

Image Source: The Guardian

Alexander Zverev made the stronger start in the 2026 US Open men’s final, taking the opening set 6-3 against Ben Shelton at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The German then carried his momentum into the second set, which was level at 2-2 during the latest update from The Guardian’s live report.

The final brings together two players with contrasting stories. Zverev, the top seed, is appearing in his fifth Grand Slam final and his third major final of the year. Shelton, the eighth seed, is playing in his first major championship match and is attempting to end a long wait for American men’s tennis.

Alexander Zverev Seizes Early Control in New York

Zverev earned an immediate break in the opening game after Shelton struggled to settle behind his serve. The American produced an impressive 141mph ace, but a double fault on break point handed Zverev the early advantage.

That break proved crucial. Zverev protected his service games and placed consistent pressure on Shelton’s second serve. Although the German also committed a pair of double faults during the set, his baseline control and powerful two-handed backhand helped him manage the longer exchanges.

Shelton adjusted his serving strategy after the difficult opening. Rather than relying exclusively on his fastest deliveries, he mixed his pace and held comfortably in several games. He also showed his athleticism at the net, producing sliding volleys that briefly lifted the Arthur Ashe crowd.

However, Shelton could not create a break-point opportunity on Zverev’s serve during the first set. A final double fault into the net allowed Zverev to close out the set 6-3.

Second Set Brings Fresh Pressure

The second set has been more competitive. Shelton built an early 40-0 lead in one service game, but Zverev fought back to force deuce. The American eventually held after producing a well-timed overhead winner.

Zverev then held at love for the first time in the match, using his serve to move ahead 2-1. Shelton responded in the next game after saving a break point, surviving several long rallies and earning a loud roar from the New York crowd.

The latest score was Zverev 6-3, 2-2 Shelton, with Shelton due to serve next. The German has been trying to extend rallies and move Shelton from side to side, while Shelton continues to search for opportunities behind his explosive first serve.

Historic Stakes for Ben Shelton

Shelton’s route to the final has been demanding. He survived a five-set quarter-final against Carlos Alcaraz, winning a deciding-set tiebreak in an epic that finished at 3:33am, the latest conclusion in tournament history. He then defeated Frances Tiafoe in four sets to reach his first Grand Slam final.

A victory would carry enormous significance. Shelton could become the first American man to win the US Open since Andy Roddick in 2003. He is also the first Black American man to reach the US Open singles final since Arthur Ashe in 1972 and the first to reach any Grand Slam singles final since MaliVai Washington at Wimbledon in 1996.

The 23-year-old has enjoyed an outstanding season, winning titles on hard court, clay and grass. He entered the final with a 7-2 career record in championship matches and had won all four of his finals this year.

Zverev Chasing a Second Major Title

Zverev arrived in New York with a major title already secured at Roland Garros and a runner-up finish at Wimbledon. His US Open campaign began with two five-set matches, including a narrow escape against Lorenzo Sonego, but he became increasingly convincing later in the tournament.

After those opening battles, Zverev reached the final without dropping a set in his next four matches. He defeated Karen Khachanov in the semi-final and now has a chance to win his second Grand Slam title.

The German also entered the match with a significant head-to-head advantage. He had beaten Shelton in all five of their previous meetings and had lost only one set across those encounters. Shelton, however, had already overturned a 0-17 record against top-three opponents by defeating Alcaraz in the quarter-final.

What Happens Next in the US Open Final?

The second set could determine whether Shelton can turn the match into another long Grand Slam battle. His serve remains the most obvious weapon, but he must limit unforced errors and find a way to challenge Zverev’s service games.

Zverev’s priority will be to maintain his disciplined baseline play. If he continues absorbing Shelton’s power and forcing extended rallies, he will remain in a commanding position. The German’s experience in major finals gives him another advantage, although Shelton has repeatedly shown that he can raise his level against elite opponents.

For now, Zverev leads 6-3, 2-2. The contest remains open, but the early momentum belongs clearly to the German top seed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the latest score in the Alexander Zverev final?

Alexander Zverev won the first set 6-3 against Ben Shelton. The second set was level at 2-2 during the latest update.

Has Alexander Zverev beaten Ben Shelton before?

Yes. Zverev entered the final with a 5-0 record against Shelton and had won 10 of their previous 11 sets.

What would a Ben Shelton victory mean?

Shelton would become the first American man to win the US Open since Andy Roddick in 2003. He would also make history as the first Black American man to win the tournament since Arthur Ashe in 1968.

Which major title has Alexander Zverev already won?

Zverev won his first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros earlier in 2026. He also reached the Wimbledon final this year.