Daijiworld Media Network – New York

New York, Sep 3: The US Open 2026 is underway, with Germany’s Alexander Zverev among the leading contenders for the prestigious title after arriving in New York on the back of his maiden Grand Slam triumph at the French Open.

Zverev began his US Open campaign with a hard-fought five-set victory over Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego in the opening round. The German star is now aiming to build on his recent success and claim another major title.

Reflecting on his French Open triumph, Zverev said years of hard work and narrowly missed opportunities had played a major role in finally getting him over the line.

“I think it was just the result of the work that I’ve done over the years. A lot of times, I came up just short. That’s what maybe made the difference in the end against Flavia in the fifth set. I was feeling really ready to win, which was a different kind of feeling compared to the other finals. Of course, I’m happy that it happened, but we’re in New York now, and I want to try and do it again,” Zverev told JioHotstar.

The 29-year-old also opened up about the relief of finally winning his first Grand Slam after years of disappointment. He admitted there had been pressure on him to achieve the feat, but said lifting the trophy had only increased his hunger for more success.

“Yeah, there was definitely some weight on my shoulders, for sure, especially at the age that I’m at. You never know if it’s ever going to happen. So, I was very happy to have finally lifted my first Grand Slam trophy, but now, once you do it, you want more,” he said.

Zverev will next face Quentin Halys in the second round as he looks to continue his pursuit of a second consecutive Grand Slam title.