Top-seeded Alexander Zverev is looking to add another Grand Slam title to his collection as he begins his campaign at the US Open. Fresh off his maiden major victory at the French Open earlier this year, Zverev carries the weight of expectation and a lingering sense of unfinished business at Flushing Meadows. The German star is determined to conquer the tournament that narrowly eluded him in 2020.
Zverev’s Quest for Redemption at the US Open
The memory of the 2020 US Open final still weighs on Zverev. He held a commanding two-set lead over Dominic Thiem, only to see the championship slip through his fingers. It would be six long years before he finally achieved his Grand Slam dream at Roland Garros. “I still feel like I should have won in 2020, that doesn’t change,” Zverev stated, reflecting on the past as he prepared for his opening-round match against Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego.
Zverev’s recent form leading into the US Open has been somewhat inconsistent. Following his breakthrough at Roland Garros and a subsequent run to the Wimbledon final, his results in the lead-up tournaments have been less stellar. He experienced an early exit in Montreal and reached the fourth round in Cincinnati. However, Zverev expressed confidence in his game’s trajectory. “I definitely feel like my game has been coming back, and it’s been better and better every practice session that I’ve had,” he said. “I hope I can show my best tennis here again.”
His first-round opponent, Lorenzo Sonego, ranked 89th in the world, presents a familiar challenge. Zverev boasts a perfect 6-0 record in their previous encounters, a statistic that could provide the perfect tonic for Zverev to regain his stride on the Grand Slam stage.
Key Matches to Watch on Day 3
Beyond Zverev’s compelling narrative, the third day of the US Open features several other intriguing matchups. Women’s Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina, currently closing in on Aryna Sabalenka’s world number one ranking, is set to compete. Also in action are fourth-seeded American Coco Gauff and the rapidly emerging talent from the Philippines, Alexandra Eala.
Coco Gauff Faces Zeynep Sonmez
Coco Gauff, the reigning US Open champion, enters the tournament with significant momentum. The 23-year-old American captured her first WTA 1000 title in Cincinnati recently, marking her first tournament victory since October. This success offers a stark contrast to her struggles in 2025, when service issues led to a mid-tournament coaching change. Gauff’s powerful game and extensive experience make her a strong favorite against Turkey’s Zeynep Sonmez, ranked 53rd. Sonmez’s sole WTA title came in Merida in 2024.
This marks the first career meeting between Gauff and Sonmez.
Alexandra Eala Takes on Mary Stoiana
Alexandra Eala, the rising star from the Philippines, makes her second appearance in the US Open main draw. Her recent maiden WTA title in Washington has solidified her status as a global talent and a fan favorite. Eala can expect fervent support from the Filipino contingent that consistently fills Louis Armstrong Stadium for her matches. However, she will also face a strong contingent of local support for her opponent, qualifier Mary Stoiana. Stoiana, ranked 122nd, is a former collegiate number one who led Texas A&M to the NCAA championship in 2024. This match represents a significant opportunity for Stoiana to make a mark against a top-20 player in her first career encounter with Eala.
Eala holds a 1-0 lead in their head-to-head series.
Looking Ahead
As the first round of the US Open draws to a close, the tournament is already delivering compelling storylines and potential upsets. Zverev’s pursuit of a second Grand Slam title, Gauff’s defense of her home crown, and Eala’s continued ascent all promise an exciting fortnight of tennis at Flushing Meadows.
