RismadarVoice Reporters
September 13, 2026
Alexander Zverev and Ben Shelton will head into Sunday’s US Open men’s final knowing that, regardless of the outcome, both players have already produced Grand Slam campaigns in 2026 that represent significant achievements in their careers.
The two finalists have arrived at the championship match through different paths, with each overcoming challenges during the season to establish themselves among the leading contenders at the four major tournaments.
For Zverev, the US Open final provides another opportunity to add a Grand Slam title to a career that has increasingly been defined by deep runs at the sport’s biggest events. The German has consistently featured among the leading players on the ATP Tour and has established a reputation for performing strongly on the major stage.
Shelton, meanwhile, enters the final as a player continuing to make his mark at Grand Slam level. The American’s progress to the championship match represents another major step in his development and places him on the verge of potentially claiming the biggest title of his career.
Their respective performances across the 2026 Grand Slam season have provided evidence of their consistency and ability to compete deep into major tournaments.
Sunday’s final will ultimately determine who leaves Flushing Meadows with the US Open trophy, but the significance of the season extends beyond the result of their final meeting.
For Zverev, another Grand Slam final reinforces his status as one of the established figures of the modern men’s game. For Shelton, reaching the final further strengthens his emergence as one of the leading American players of his generation.
The championship match therefore carries significance for both players, with Zverev seeking to convert another deep Grand Slam run into a major title and Shelton attempting to complete his breakthrough on one of tennis’s biggest stages.
Whatever the outcome, their 2026 campaigns have already ensured that both players will look back on the Grand Slam season with a strong sense of achievement.
