Right Now, Maybe Yes— Zverev Declares Himself World’s Best After US Open Glory

Alexander Zverev has declared that he could currently be the best tennis player in the world after defeating Ben Shelton to win the 2026 US Open title at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Sunday.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the 29-year-old German overcame American star Ben Shelton 6-3, 7-6 (7-2), 5-7, 6-2 in the final to secure his second Grand Slam title of the year. Zverev had previously won the French Open in June and ended the major tournament season with an impressive 25-2 record.

Asked whether his current form makes him the best player in the world, Zverev pointed to his recent performances but acknowledged that Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz could still have an advantage when both are fully fit.

The German explained that Sinner’s injury and Alcaraz’s return from a four-month injury layoff had influenced his assessment. However, he admitted that when the two rivals are healthy and performing at their highest level, he still considers Sinner to be ahead of him.

Zverev also credited his improved mental strength for helping him overcome the painful memories of his 2020 US Open final defeat to Dominic Thiem. On that occasion, he surrendered a two-set lead and lost the championship match in five sets.

Six years later, Zverev remained composed against Shelton and a crowd of about 24,000 spectators at Arthur Ashe Stadium. His concentration was so intense that he initially failed to realise that he had sealed the championship after serving out the final game.

The German said he had been completely locked into the moment and barely noticed the noise from the crowd. He explained that focusing solely on the next point rather than the score helped him maintain his composure when the pressure was at its highest.

After eventually realising he had won, Zverev celebrated by raising his arms and smiling broadly as he savoured a victory that represented a major turnaround from his previous US Open heartbreak.

Reflecting on his achievement, the German highlighted the significance of winning two Grand Slam titles within a short period, describing his 2026 success as the result of years of hard work and perseverance.

Zverev also paid tribute to his parents, particularly his mother, for their support throughout his career. He recalled being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a child and praised his mother for refusing to allow the condition to limit his ambitions in tennis or in life.

He described his mother as the most important and strongest person he knows, crediting her belief in him during difficult periods for helping shape the player he has become.

The victory over Shelton has now placed Zverev firmly among the leading names in men’s tennis and strengthened his case as one of the sport’s dominant players in 2026.