Alexander Zverev started strong in the US Open semi final, putting Karen Khachanov on the back foot from the first games. The match unfolds at Arthur Ashe Stadium on a day marked by tributes.
Alexander Zverev opened the 2026 US Open men’s semi final with a fast start, taking the first set 6-3 and moving ahead 2-0 in the second against Karen Khachanov. Zverev’s aggressive play left Khachanov struggling to keep up on Arthur Ashe Stadium’s main stage.
Khachanov, ranked No 50, came in as the underdog. His recent run had raised hopes, as he reached a Grand Slam semi final for the first time in over three years. But Zverev’s pace and confidence quickly showed the gap between the two players.
The US Open 2026 men’s semi final between Zverev and Khachanov was scheduled as the first men’s semi final on September 11, with a start time not before 3:00 p.m. local time.
This match is being played on the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. The stadium is hosting tributes, and the atmosphere is more charged than usual as the crowd marks the occasion.
Zverev arrived in New York as the top seed, having already won Roland Garros and finished runner-up at Wimbledon this season. Reports from Sky Sports and the Washington Post note that he reached the semi finals at all four Grand Slam tournaments in 2026, a sign of his consistency. He leads Khachanov 6-3 in their head-to-head record, and his serve and baseline power have left Khachanov with few chances so far.
Khachanov’s route to this stage was not easy. After dropping in the rankings, he fought back with a series of tough wins. He reached this semi final after Alexander Blockx retired during their quarter final. But facing Zverev in this form has been a different test. Khachanov has struggled to break Zverev’s rhythm, and unforced errors have added to his frustration.
US Open 2026 officially dedicated the day to the 25th anniversary of September 11, featuring memorial ceremonies, a minute of silence, lowered flags, and the Tribute in Light installation. Special performances of the national anthem were scheduled before both men’s semi finals.
US Open
As the match goes on, the question is whether Khachanov can recover or if Zverev is heading for a third straight Grand Slam final. Zverev’s steady play has defined his 2026 season, and his focus under pressure stands out. Tennis Majors notes that Zverev has a 3:1 edge over Khachanov in their meetings since 2022, adding to his advantage in this rivalry.
The tennis world is watching, with the second semi final between Francis Tiafoe and Ben Shelton set to follow. The result here will help set the tone for the final at Flushing Meadows.
What stands out in this semi final is Zverev’s control, both technically and mentally. Khachanov’s return to the later rounds deserves credit, but Zverev’s execution has been on another level. Unless Khachanov can turn things around, Zverev looks set to continue his run at the top of men’s tennis.
