Zverev finally earns his first straight-set win at this year's US Open
· Yahoo Sports
Top seed Alexander Zverev has finally earned his first straight-set win at this year's US Open following two five-setters in the previous rounds.
On Saturday evening, the German overcame a minor scare in the second set to beat Alejandro Tabilo 6-2, 7-6 (7-2), 6-2 and advance to the last 16.
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In his previous two matches against Lorenzo Sonego and Quentin Halys Zverev spent a combined nine hours and 26 minutes on court, and will sure be relived to have sealed the deal in two hours and 26 minutes
"My coach was actually quite smart. He explained to me that a best-of-five-sets match doesn't mean you have to play five sets," the French Open champion joked following his win.
"I didn't know that until today, but I am definitely happy with the improvements. Definitely happy that my level is going in the right direction. I am happy to be in the second week."
Zverev only faced some trouble in the second set. He appeared in control early on, leading 4-2, but Tabilo earner two set points on Zverev's serve at 5-4.
The German saved both before breaking Tabilo's serve to take a 6-5 lead, but the Chilean broke back and forced a tie-break. Zverev, however, kept his cool to clinch the set with a composed display.
His next opponent is Italian Luciano Darderi, who defeated Dane Sweeny 6-4, 6-3, 6-3.
Zverev is one of the top favourites to win the US Open, which would be the second Grand Slam title of his career. He was a finalist in New York in 2020.
World number one Jannik Sinner of Italy is out with a knee injury, while record Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic has already been eliminated. Top contender Carlos Alcaraz, meanwhile, it's returning from injury after a four-month break.