Top-seeded Alexander Zverev is set to launch his campaign at the US Open, aiming to add another Grand Slam title to his collection following his maiden major victory at the French Open earlier this year. The German star carries the weight of past near-misses at Flushing Meadows, particularly the 2020 final where he held a commanding two-set lead over Dominic Thiem, only to fall short. That disappointment lingered for six years until his breakthrough at Roland Garros.
Zverev’s Quest for US Open Glory
Reflecting on his career, Zverev expressed that the memory of the 2020 US Open final still fuels his determination. “I still feel like I should have won in 2020, that doesn’t change,” he stated ahead of his opening-round match against Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego. This sentiment underscores his ambition to conquer the one major championship that has eluded him in the final stages.
Zverev’s journey to this year’s US Open has been marked by a mix of results. While he celebrated a significant Grand Slam win at Roland Garros and reached the Wimbledon final, his preparation for the New York hard courts has been less convincing. He experienced early exits in Montreal and a fourth-round defeat in Cincinnati. However, facing the 89th-ranked Sonego, against whom he boasts a perfect 6-0 head-to-head record, presents an opportunity for Zverev to regain his footing.
“I definitely feel like my game has been coming back, and it’s been better and better every practice session that I’ve had,” Zverev shared, expressing optimism about his form. “I hope I can show my best tennis here again.” His confidence suggests he believes he can replicate his Grand Slam-winning performances on the Flushing Meadows stage.
Other Notable Matches on Day 3
The opening round of the US Open continues to feature compelling matchups, with several high-profile players taking to the court on Tuesday. Among them are Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina, who is closing in on the world number one ranking held by Aryna Sabalenka, fourth-seeded American Coco Gauff, and the emerging talent from the Philippines, Alexandra Eala.
Coco Gauff Faces Zeynep Sonmez
Fourth seed Coco Gauff, the reigning US Open champion, begins her title defense against Turkey’s Zeynep Sonmez. Gauff, who captured her first Grand Slam title at Flushing Meadows in 2023, arrives in New York with considerable momentum. She recently secured a WTA 1000 title in Cincinnati, her first since winning in Wuhan last October. This resurgence marks a significant turnaround from her struggles in 2025, which led to a mid-tournament coaching change.
Gauff’s powerful game and extensive experience position her as a strong favorite against the 53rd-ranked Sonmez. Sonmez’s sole WTA title came in Merida in 2024. This encounter is the first meeting between the two players.
Alexandra Eala Takes on Mary Stoiana
In another intriguing women’s singles match, rising star Alexandra Eala of the Philippines is set to compete against American qualifier Mary Stoiana. Eala, making her second appearance in the main draw of the US Open, is fresh off her first WTA title in Washington D.C. this month, a victory that has further cemented her status as a global talent.
Eala’s matches have become known for the passionate support of Filipino fans, who are expected to fill Louis Armstrong Stadium. However, Stoiana, ranked 122nd in the world, will also have considerable backing. A former collegiate number one who led Texas A&M to the NCAA championship in 2024, Stoiana is eager to make a significant impact in her debut match against a top-20 opponent. Eala holds a 1-0 lead in their head-to-head series.
Looking Ahead
As the US Open progresses, the focus remains on top contenders like Zverev and Gauff to navigate the early rounds and build momentum. The tournament promises thrilling tennis, with established stars and rising talents vying for supremacy on the hard courts of Flushing Meadows. The path to Grand Slam glory is never easy, and Zverev’s quest for redemption in New York is a narrative that will undoubtedly capture the attention of tennis fans worldwide.
