In a gripping encounter at the 2024 U.S. Open, world number one Alexander Zverev triumphed over Lorenzo Sonego in a five-set thriller that lasted nearly five hours. The match, held at Arthur Ashe Stadium, concluded at 1:55 A.M. local time, with Zverev securing a hard-fought victory with a scoreline of 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(7), 7-5, 6-4.
This match marked a significant moment for Zverev, who has struggled since his runner-up finish at Wimbledon earlier this summer, posting a 2-2 record in his previous outings. Despite the challenges, Zverev expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating, "I’m happy that I won this kind of battle because this is exactly the match I needed. I struggled the last two tournaments–I didn’t play well–and sometimes good things happen after you fight through one of these matches, so I’m hoping that will be the case for me at this tournament."
Sonego, ranked 89th in the world, entered the match as a significant underdog, having lost all six previous encounters against Zverev. However, he displayed remarkable determination and skill, nearly pulling off an upset. At 5-4 in the fourth set, Sonego found himself just two points away from victory, showcasing a blend of powerful forehands, deft lobs, and a masterful backhand slice that earned him three break conversions.
The fourth set was particularly intense, with Sonego demonstrating impressive defensive capabilities, saving four break points to maintain his lead. However, Zverev managed to fend off the challenge, ultimately forcing a decisive fifth set. By the time the match reached its final set, both players were visibly fatigued, having battled for nearly four and a half hours.
In the fifth set, Zverev capitalized on a crucial break opportunity when Sonego double-faulted, taking a 3-2 lead. He then held his serve, saving a break point before sealing the match with three powerful serves, concluding the contest at 6-4. This victory not only marked the second longest match of Zverev's career but also made history as the first time since 1988 that a top seed required five sets to win their opening match at the U.S. Open.
The match echoed a similar scenario from the previous night when Martin Damm pushed Francis Tiafoe to the brink in a closely contested match. Zverev's victory improved his season record to 47-13, leading all male players on the tour in wins for the year.
Marathon matches like this one often serve as a double-edged sword; they can either indicate potential fatigue heading into the later rounds or act as a catalyst for a player to regain their momentum. Zverev has a history of overcoming two-set deficits, having done so 12 times previously, suggesting that this match could bolster his confidence as he continues in the tournament.
Looking ahead, Zverev is set to face Quentin Halys, ranked 52nd, in the next round. Zverev holds a 2-0 record against Halys this season, which could bode well for his chances of advancing further in the tournament. As Zverev aims to join the ranks of tennis legends like Rod Laver and Roger Federer by reaching the semifinals of all four Grand Slam events in a single calendar year, his path appears favorable, with only two players in his half of the draw having reached a Grand Slam final.
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