Alexander Zverev holds his nerve against Karen Khachanov to reach US Open final
About 107 minutes into men’s semi-final day on Arthur Ashe Stadium, there was finally a touch of tension radiating from the court. After falling down a set and break, his semi-final meeting with his old rival Alexander Zverev swiftly turning into a beating, Karen Khachanov fought hard to force a second-set tie-break. Deep in that tension-filled tie-break, down 5-6 on his serve, Khachanov saved Zverev’s first set point with a bold forehand winner, and then at 6-7 he punctuated a screaming backhand passing shot winner with an imperious roar of his own.
TL;DR
- Alexander Zverev defeated Karen Khachanov 6-3, 7-6 (7), 7-6 (6) to reach the US Open final.
- This is Zverev's third consecutive Grand Slam final appearance and sixth overall.
- Khachanov, ranked world No. 50, put up a strong fight, forcing two tie-breaks.
- Zverev's serve and consistency overcame Khachanov's challenge, despite Khachanov saving set points.
- Zverev has had a favorable draw, not facing a top-eight player en route to the final.
- The match generated little interest, with tickets selling for as low as $21.