Zverev stormed into the US Open quarterfinals with a straight sets win over Darderi

Alexander Zverev continued his quest for a first US Open title as the top-seeded German defeated Italian Luciano Darderi 6-2, 6-2, 7-6(3) to reach the quarter-finals on Monday. After two grueling five-setters early in the tournament, Zverev finally found a straightforward evening at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The 29-year-old came out with clear intent, using his serve and heavy baseline hitting to keep Darderi under constant pressure. Although the 21st seed managed to test his serve late in the opening set, Zverev held firm before finding another gear in the second.

A misfire from Darderi gave Zverev his second break in the next set, allowing the German to extend his lead to 4-0. From there, he stayed in control and doubled his advantage without being drawn into another physical battle. It was a marked improvement over the marathon that defined his opening laps.

Darderi was finally able to break that rhythm in the third set. His powerful first serve started to cause problems, while his use of drop shots forced Zverev to come forward and defend in unfamiliar positions. The Italian held the set on serve and worked his way to the round of 16.

However, Zverev kept his composure when it mattered most. He took control of the tiebreak and closed out the match 7–3, becoming the only man to reach the quarterfinals of all four Grand Slams in 2026.

“I thought my level was very consistent,” Zverev said afterward. “In the third set, he started playing incredibly well. I’ve hardly seen anyone hit the ball as hard as he did consistently throughout the set, so credit goes to him.”

ZVEREV HOLDS TIGHT UNDER PRESSURE

The victory was especially welcome after Zverev spent almost 12 hours on court during the first three matches. His two five-set victories propelled him deep into the night, so Monday’s relatively routine finish was a valuable change of pace.

Zverev even joked about the unfamiliar experience of finishing before midnight.

“To be honest, I don’t know what to do with myself because it’s before midnight. So I could go back to the practice court, I could go out to the bar. I don’t know yet,” he said, later clarifying that the bar suggestion was a joke.

Zverev will face Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp for a place in the semi-finals. Van de Zandschulp booked a quarter-final place after a marathon victory over Arthur Gea.

– The end

Issued by:

Debodinna Chakraborty

Published on:

08 Sep 2026 09:48 IST