The conclusion of the match provided a surreal moment for spectators as Zverev appeared momentarily unaware that he had clinched the championship. When Shelton’s final forehand sailed wide on match point, the new champion did not immediately celebrate. Instead, he turned toward the baseline, seemingly preparing to serve for the next point, before the deafening roar of the crowd finally alerted him to his achievement. Only then did he raise his arms to acknowledge the victory.
A Long-Awaited Breakthrough
Reflecting on his journey to the title, Zverev spoke about the perseverance required to reach this stage after years of near-misses and physical setbacks. He noted that the success felt like a culmination of the intense effort and suffering he had endured throughout his career. According to the champion, the 2026 season serves as the ultimate outcome for all the challenges he faced in the years leading up to this breakthrough.
The match saw Zverev hold off a late surge from Shelton, who had entered the final with significant momentum. The 23-year-old American had captured the attention of the home crowd following a thrilling quarter-final victory over defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and a hard-fought semi-final win against Frances Tiafoe. Despite the high expectations surrounding Shelton, who aimed to become the first American man to win a Grand Slam title in 23 years, Zverev’s composure proved decisive in the four-set encounter.
Context of the Final
Zverev’s victory brings an end to a six-year wait for a major title, a period defined by two previous Grand Slam final disappointments. For Shelton, the loss prevented him from ending the long-standing drought for American men in major tournaments, a streak that has persisted since Andy Roddick’s triumph in 2003. By securing the trophy, Zverev has firmly established himself among the elite of the sport, finally capturing the elusive US Open crown that had slipped through his fingers six years ago.
