Alexander Zverev Triumphs in Thrilling US Open Opener Against Lorenzo Sonego

Zverev's Hard-Fought Victory

New York [US], September 2: Alexander Zverev faced a significant challenge in his opening match at the US Open, narrowly defeating Italy's Lorenzo Sonego in a gripping contest that spanned nearly five hours on Wednesday.

As a top seed for the first time in a Grand Slam, the German player found himself just two points away from a shocking first-round elimination while serving at 4-5, 30/30 in the fourth set. However, he regained control at a crucial moment, keeping his hopes for a second Grand Slam title alive. Earlier this year, Zverev claimed victory at the French Open, defeating Flavio Cabolli in the final.

He ultimately secured a hard-fought win with scores of 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(7), 7-5, 6-4. After the match, Zverev expressed his relief, stating, “I am just happy I won. That is it. Incredible battle. A lot of ups and downs. Nearly five hours for a first round. I think this is the longest first-round match I have ever played in my life. So credit to him, he played amazing tennis today. He would have beaten a lot of players for sure, but I am happy to be through.”

Despite entering the match with a perfect 6-0 record against Sonego, Zverev was pushed to the edge and nearly faced his first defeat against the Italian.

Next, Zverev will take on France's Quentin Halys, against whom he holds an unblemished 2-0 record, with victories at both the Miami Open and the French Open this year. Zverev leads the tour with 47 wins, including 19 at major tournaments.

In another match, Gael Monfils celebrated his 40th birthday by making a memorable start to his 18th and final appearance at the hard court major, coming back to win 2-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-0 against Adolfo Daniel Vallejo. Monfils, who is playing his last season, dazzled the audience with 37 winners, with his wife and former tennis star Elina Svitolina cheering him on.

“That was definitely very special, to play on the day of my 40th birthday,” Monfils remarked during his on-court interview as fans sang 'Happy Birthday'.

“You guys always make it electric. The atmosphere is unbelievable. I feel great here. I always try to put on a great show, so let’s keep it up for the second round,” he concluded.