Alexander Zverev makes candid ‘pep talk’ confession after reaching US Open final
Alexander Zverev has admitted he could not believe how poorly he was playing in the opening two rounds of this year’s US Open, as he opened up on a draining tournament that will end with his appearance in Sunday’s final.
Zverev beat Karen Khachanov 6-3, 7-6(7), 7-6(6) to reach a third Grand Slam final of 2026 and continue his bid for a second major of the year.
The top seed put in a commanding performance to beat his Russian rival, as he insisted looked back on his story of near misses in Grand Slam events, before he won the French Open in June.
“Sometimes things go your way. I feel like I’ve had a little struggle at the major level,” he said after beating Khachanov.
“I was so close so many times and maybe this year God has said this is going to be your year and enjoy your time on the court.
More Tennis News
Alexander Zverev names the player he believes is favourite to win US Open over himself
John McEnroe reveals who he would like to see Carlos Alcaraz play in his ultimate match
“I’m enjoying it and playing these big finals. I can’t wait for Sunday.”
He then revealed details of a conversation he had his with his extended team at the US Open.
“After the second round, at about 3am I was sitting with my team in the locker room and we were laughing at how bad I was playing,” Zverev reflected.
“That sense of humour helped me. I obviously have improved a bit or I would not be in the US Open final.”
Tennis legend Martina Navratilova joined the chorus on praise of Alcaraz, as he insisted the German should be saluted for his success.
“What a year Zverev has had at the majors. It’s been outstanding stuff,” Navratilova told Sky Sports.
“Okay, Sinner lost early at the French Open and Alcaraz didn’t play, but there are no asterisks, he still had to get through even as a favourite. And that has given him the confidence to play better tennis after that.
“I think he played better at Wimbledon than he did at Roland Garros, and now he started off badly here by his own admission, but he hasn’t lost a set the last four matches. He’s cooking now.”
Alcaraz is expected to play at the Laver Cup event in London and the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia, but he has yet to confirm where he will play his next big tournament.
READ NEXT: Alexander Zverev makes special US Open ‘request’ amid nod to Roger Federer and Pete Sampras
