Alexander Zverev powered into the US Open quarter-finals with a 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (3) win over 21st seed Luciano Darderi on Monday, extending a strong surge after two early five-set escapes in New York. The top seed has now made the last eight at all four majors this season, marking the first time he has completed that sweep in a single year.
Zverev’s Dominant Performance
The Roland Garros champion, 29, controlled the match with a dominant serve, landing 72 percent of his first deliveries and winning 86 percent of those points (51 of 59). He saved the only break point he faced in the opening set and, despite failing to break in the third set after five opportunities, sealed the victory in a tiebreak to finish in two hours and 31 minutes.
The result also avenged a loss to Darderi earlier this year in Rome, where the Italian saved four match points to upset Zverev when the German was ranked world No. 2. This victory not only highlights Zverev’s resilience but also his ability to learn from past defeats.
Zverev’s win was his 50th at tour level this season, showcasing his consistent performance throughout the year. He will face Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp next, with the pair meeting for the first time. This upcoming match promises to be an exciting contest as both players strive for a spot in the semi-finals.
Chasing a second Grand Slam trophy and a first title at Flushing Meadows, Zverev has now reached the US Open quarter-finals for the fifth time. He becomes the sixth active men’s player to achieve that mark, joining the elite company of Novak Djokovic (14), Stan Wawrinka (6), Marin Cilic (5), Daniil Medvedev (5), and Carlos Alcaraz (5).
As the tournament progresses, Zverev’s performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. His strong serve and tactical prowess on the court could prove pivotal in his quest for the championship. With the momentum on his side, Zverev is poised to make a deep run at the US Open this year.