Zverev survives five-set US Open opener

Top-seeded Alexander Zverev narrowly avoided an early exit from the US Open, surviving a grueling five-set marathon against Italy's Lorenzo Sonego in the first round. The match, which concluded early Wednesday morning, September 2, 2026, stretched for four hours and 53 minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium, with Zverev ultimately prevailing 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(7), 7-5, 6-4. Zverev, who entered the tournament as the top seed for the first time in his Grand Slam career following the withdrawal of Jannik Sinner, found himself in a precarious position. He was two sets to one down and later stood just two points away from defeat in the fourth set against the world No. 89 Sonego. The German managed to hold his nerve, however, forcing a decider and eventually securing the victory. "I'm just happy I won. That's it," Zverev said on court after the match. "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've ever played in my life. So credit to him, he played amazing tennis today.