Overview
- Alexander Zverev beat Ben Shelton in the US Open final to claim his second Grand Slam of 2026 and add to his French Open title earlier this year.
- The victory moves Zverev closer to Jannik Sinner in the ATP rankings because he has relatively few points to defend, giving him a practical path to challenge for year‑end No. 1.
- Former champions and coaches defended Zverev’s achievement and work ethic, with Boris Becker calling criticisms of the win 'incredible disrespect.'
- Several players and pundits sharply criticized the final’s entertainment value and Zverev’s lengthy ball‑bouncing before serves, renewing calls for formal time or bounce limits to stop routine‑driven disruption.
- Ben Shelton emerged as a breakthrough star after beating Carlos Alcaraz en route to his first major final, and analysts said Zverev’s tactical use of high topspin to Shelton’s backhand and Shelton’s hesitation were decisive in the match.