Do expectations need to change with Zverev for the US Open?

Andrés Tomás Rico | 14 Jul 2026 | 23.00

Do we need to change expectations for Zverev for the US Open? Photo: Gettyimages

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We need to talk about Alexander Zverev. Despite losing in the Wimbledon final against Jannik Sinner, the German has been the main protagonist in these last two months. First, he redeemed himself by winning his first Grand Slam at Roland Garros, and then, by playing his best tennis on grass to reach the final round of the London Grand Slam and make the world number one sweat. In fact, he is now the number two in the ATP rankings, displacing Carlos Alcaraz. And the question that arises is, does he have a chance at the US Open title?

As of today, considering his performance at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, the conditions of Novak Djokovic, the uncertainties surrounding Alcaraz, and the fact that he is likely to avoid Sinner until a potential final in New York, all point in that direction. His success at Roland Garros freed him from all the ghosts and fears he held within, and in London, a clear improvement in his tennis and mental aspect was evident.

"I've always been number three in a way."

Zverev talks about his goal to continue challenging Sinner & Alcaraz at the highest level. 💪#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/rMckL2f7HE
— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) July 12, 2026

The new version of Alexander Zverev brings optimism for the US Open 2026

In terms of tennis, his forehand, especially in crucial moments, flows more than ever. He is no longer as defensive and goes all-in when he needs to seal a key point. This was evident in the first tiebreak of the final against Sinner, where, supported by an excellent serve, he took the initiative in most exchanges and dominated with his drive.

Mentally, he also appears different. One could say lighter, not overthinking things, or complaining about absolutely everything. Although he threw his racket when facing the first break of the match in the third set, for the rest of the encounter, he appeared very calm with a clear mindset.

Now, a North American hard court tour awaits, a terrain that he has managed quite well. He knows what it's like to win the Masters 1000 in Canada in 2017 and also the Masters 1000 in Cincinnati in 2021, besides reaching three consecutive semifinals at the Ohio tournament. Not to mention his performance at the US Open; possibly, in the Arthur Ashe it was where he suffered his most painful defeat as a tennis player, serving for the title in the 2020 final against Dominic Thiem, who ended up claiming the victory.

Perhaps there began the negative cycle and his insecurities in significant matches and Grand Slams. But after his breakthrough this summer, he could redeem himself from that final and why not? Seize his second Grand Slam. Other than the mentioned final, his other best results have been semifinals in 2021 and quarterfinals in 2023 and 2024.

However, there are also opinions that Zverev's performance in this past Roland Garros and Wimbledon has been a summer fling. The return of Alcaraz, albeit with uncertainties, may close the window opened by the Spaniard's injury, while despite raising his level against Sinner, he still can't beat him, now at 10 consecutive losses. And lastly, Novak Djokovic is still in the mix. He showed in London that his hunger remains fierce, and one should never count him out.

Another factor to consider will be his physical condition. For now, the German's body has withstood two very intense tours where he reached the final, and in this latter part of the season, the first signs of fatigue are starting to show. In conclusion, there will be no better test to see if Alexander Zverev has arrived to stay or has simply taken advantage of this US Open 2026.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, ¿Hay que cambiar las expectativas con Zverev para el US Open?

ATP