Alexander Zverev Defeats Van de Zandschulp to Reach US Open Semifinals

Alexander Zverev entered the 2026 US Open aiming to improve on his past performances. His early matches showed steady form, building confidence as the tournament progressed. He notably reflected on his previous Wimbledon final against Jannik Sinner, mentioning that a slip during the match affected his serve and ultimately the result, but he felt he was playing well before that moment, according to Fanpage.

By the time he faced Luciano Darderi, Zverev was in strong form. He won decisively in straight sets, setting up a quarterfinal match against Botic van de Zandschulp, the world number 70, as reported by ANSA.it.

On September 8, Zverev secured his quarterfinal spot by beating Darderi, continuing his run of straight-sets victories.

The next day, he prepared to face Van de Zandschulp, a Dutch player who had built momentum through the tournament. The quarterfinal match was scheduled with anticipation, as Zverev's progress had potential implications for the ATP rankings, particularly with Jannik Sinner absent from the tournament.

In the night between September 9 and 10, Zverev faced Van de Zandschulp and delivered a commanding performance. He won the quarterfinal in straight sets, 6-2, 7-5, 6-1, ending Van de Zandschulp's run, according to nu.nl.

This victory allowed Zverev to match and then surpass Boris Becker's record for German players at the US Open, as highlighted by DIE WELT. Zverev's achievement was widely recognized in German and international media.

Zverev is now in the semifinals of the US Open, having won his last two matches in straight sets. His current performance has set a new standard for German tennis players at the tournament, moving beyond the records held by Boris Becker.

With Sinner out, Zverev's run has meaningful consequences for the ATP rankings. He is now just two victories away from potentially claiming his first US Open title.

The next step is the US Open semifinal, where Zverev will seek to continue his winning streak. His performance will be closely watched, both for its impact on his career and the ATP rankings. The possibility of a first US Open title remains a major storyline.