NEW YORK – Alexander Zverev moved into the fourth round of the US Open with a convincing victory over Alejandro Tabilo, while Coco Gauff and several contenders advanced as a difficult day for American players produced a string of high-profile exits at Flushing Meadows.
Top seed Zverev, chasing a second Grand Slam crown, finally enjoyed a comfortable outing after two demanding five-setters. The German defeated Chile’s Tabilo 6-2, 7-6(2), 6-2, overcoming a brief lapse in concentration during the second set to remain firmly on course. “I think today was definitely much better than the last couple of days,” Zverev said, pleased with his improved baseline game. Gauff provided another boost for the home crowd, defeating Spain’s Cristina Bucsa 6-3, 6-4 to reach the last 16. The fourth seed, who won the title in 2023, continues her pursuit of a third Grand Slam trophy.
American teenager Iva Jovic also progressed after a thrilling three-hour battle with Philippines’ Alexandra Eala. The 18-year-old prevailed 7-5, 3-6, 7-5 and will meet compatriot Gauff in the next round. Two-time champion Naomi Osaka survived an emotional and physical test against Elise Mertens, recovering from a second-set setback and managing an Achilles problem to win 6-3, 3-6, 7-5. Osaka admitted she had struggled with frustration before regaining control in the decider.
Second seed Elena Rybakina defeated Yuliia Starodubtseva 7-6(6), 6-3, while Iga Swiatek beat Marie Bouzkova 7-6(3), 7-6(3). French Open champion Mirra Andreeva also advanced. For the American contingent, however, the day was painful. Ninth seed Taylor Fritz surrendered a two-set lead before Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo completed a remarkable comeback, winning 3-6, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.
Former runner-up Madison Keys also bowed out after Zheng Qinwen overturned a 5-0 deficit in the deciding set to win 1-6, 7-6(3), 7-5. Last year’s runner-up Amanda Anisimova was beaten 6-2, 7-5 by Anastasia Potapova. American wildcard Michael Zheng lost to France’s Arthur Gea in five sets, but Learner Tien ended the day on a positive note for the hosts, battling past Jakub Mensik 6-3, 1-6, 6-7(2), 6-3, 6-4.
