Alexander Zverev has defeated American Ben Shelton to win the 2026 US Open men’s singles title, securing the second Grand Slam trophy of his career.
The German second seed overcame Shelton 6-3, 7-6 (7-2), 5-7, 6-2 in the final at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Sunday.
Zverev dominated the opening two sets before Shelton mounted a late challenge, taking the third set and raising hopes of a comeback. However, the German responded strongly in the fourth, breaking Shelton early and closing out the match in convincing fashion.
The victory also marks a significant turnaround for Zverev, who suffered a painful defeat in the 2020 US Open final after coming within two points of winning his first Grand Slam.
Zverev, who won the French Open earlier this year and finished runner-up at Wimbledon, now has two major titles in 2026 and could challenge for the world number one ranking.
For Shelton, the defeat ends an impressive run that included victories over defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and compatriot Frances Tiafoe.
“Playing a guy like him, there are very few chances,” Shelton said after the match.
