Top seed Alexander Zverev ended Ben Shelton’s hopes of a historic win by defeating him in four sets to claim his first US Open title on Sunday. The match concluded with scores of 6-3, 7-6 (7-2), 5-7, 6-2 at Flushing Meadows.

Zverev showcased his prowess, adding the New York title to his earlier victory at the French Open. In a surprising finish, Shelton’s return sailed long on match point, leaving Zverev initially unaware he had won until he checked the big screen.

Reflecting on his journey, Zverev expressed gratitude, stating, "There was so much suffering for the Zverev family at Grand Slam level... Now standing here with two Grand Slam trophies in the space of months is incredible."

Shelton aimed to become the first American man to win a Grand Slam singles title since Andy Roddick in 2003 and only the second Black man to triumph at this level after Arthur Ashe in 1975. He received a warm welcome from a crowd of 23,000.

Match Highlights:

• Zverev broke Shelton in the opening game, asserting dominance early.
• Despite a grueling path to the final, Zverev's powerful serves kept Shelton at bay in the first two sets.
• Shelton managed to take the third set, but Zverev quickly regained control.
• The match lasted three hours and 33 minutes, culminating in Zverev’s second Grand Slam title.

Shelton acknowledged Zverev’s skill, saying, "Sascha, congrats on these two weeks... I’m just getting started and I’ll be back here again."

Experts noted Zverev's transformation over the past year, praising his aggressive play and experience, while highlighting the pressure Shelton faced in his first Grand Slam final. Tim Henman remarked on Zverev’s comfort in the match, and Marion Bartoli emphasized the significant difference in experience between the two players.