Zverev storms into quarter-finals with straight-sets win over Darderi

Alexander Zverev overcame a stronger challenge from Luciano Darderi in the third set to reach the US Open quarter-finals. The top seed also became the only man to make the last eight at every Grand Slam this year.Zverev has now reached quarter-finals at all four Grand Slams in 2026. (Photo: Reuters)Alexander Zverev continued his charge towards a maiden US Open title as the top-seeded German brushed aside Italy’s Luciano Darderi 6-2, 6-2, 7-6(3) to reach the quarter-finals on Monday. After two gruelling five-setters earlier in the tournament, Zverev finally found a straightforward night on Arthur Ashe Stadium.The 29-year-old came out with clear intent, using his serve and heavy baseline hitting to keep Darderi under constant pressure. Even when the 21st seed managed to test his serve late in the opening set, Zverev held firm before finding another gear in the second.A poorly executed drop shot from Darderi handed Zverev a second break in the next set, allowing the German to surge 4-0 ahead. From there, he remained in control and doubled his advantage without being dragged into another physical battle. It was a significant improvement from the marathon sessions that had defined his opening rounds.Darderi finally managed to disrupt that rhythm in the third set. His powerful first serve began creating problems, while his use of drop shots forced Zverev to move forward and defend in unfamiliar positions. The Italian kept the set on serve and made the top seed work for his passage into the last eight. Zverev, however, kept his composure when it mattered most. He took control of the tiebreak and closed out the match 7-3, becoming the only man to reach the quarter-finals at all four Grand Slam tournaments in 2026.“I thought my level was very consistent,” Zverev said afterwards. “He started playing incredibly well in the third set. I barely saw anyone hit the ball as hard as he did consistently for an entire set, so credit to him.”ZVEREV HOLDS FIRM UNDER PRESSURE The win was particularly welcome after Zverev had spent nearly 12 hours on court across his first three matches. His two five-set victories had pushed him deep into the night, making Monday’s relatively routine finish a valuable change of pace.Zverev even joked about the unfamiliar experience of finishing before midnight.“To be honest, I don’t know what to do with myself because it’s before midnight. So I might go back to the practice court, I might go out to a bar. I don’t know yet,” he said, later clarifying that the bar suggestion was a joke.Zverev will next face Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp for a place in the semi-finals. Van de Zandschulp booked his quarter-final spot after a marathon victory over Arthur Gea.- EndsPublished By: Debodinna ChakrabortyPublished On: Sep 8, 2026 09:48 IST