US Open Odds: Best Bets for Zverev vs Shelton Final Match

Tanmay Khanna | 15:00 Sunday 13th September 2026

Check out our US Open final preview and best betting tips as Alexander Zverev bids for his second Grand Slam title against home favourite Ben Shelton.

The 2026 US Open reaches its conclusion on Sunday with Alexander Zverev taking on Ben Shelton in a fascinating men's singles final at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Zverev is bidding for his second Grand Slam title of the year after winning the French Open, while Shelton is appearing in his first major final and looking to become the first American man to win a Grand Slam singles title since Andy Roddick in 2003.

The German enters as the betting favourite, but Shelton's explosive serve, aggressive baseline game and home support make this a much more competitive matchup than the head-to-head record might suggest. Zverev has won all five previous meetings according to current reports, although the latest tennis head-to-head data records four completed meetings, all won by the German.

How to Watch US Open Men's Final?

Alexander Zverev faces Ben Shelton in the 2026 US Open men's singles final on Sunday, September 13, with the championship match taking place at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York.

Date: Sunday, September 13, 2026
Time: 7pm BST
Venue: Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York

The final is scheduled for 2pm local time in New York, which means a 7pm start in the UK.

UK viewers can watch the US Open men's final live on Sky Sports Tennis, with coverage also available through Sky Sports+, the Sky Sports app and NOW. Sky Sports holds the exclusive UK rights to the tournament.

US viewers can watch the men's final live on ABC, with coverage also available on ESPN Deportes in Spanish. ESPN's schedule lists the men's championship for 2pm ET, with an encore presentation on ESPN2 at 9pm ET.

Who is the Betting Favourite in the US Open Men's Final?

Alexander Zverev is the clear betting favourite to win the 2026 US Open, with Betfair pricing the German at 4/6, while Ben Shelton is available at 6/5. Zverev's position at the top of the market is understandable given his experience, current form and dominant record against Shelton.

The world No.2 has also won his last four matches at Flushing Meadows in straight sets, including a 6-3, 7-6, 7-6 victory over Karen Khachanov in the semi-finals. Zverev has now reached three consecutive Grand Slam finals and already has the French Open title to his name this season, giving him a significant edge in terms of experience on the biggest stage.

Shelton, meanwhile, has enjoyed a remarkable run to his first Grand Slam final, beating Carlos Alcaraz in five sets before defeating Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-5 in the semi-finals. The American also produced 20 aces against Tiafoe, highlighting the serve that could cause Zverev problems if he finds his rhythm.

Alexander Zverev vs Ben Shelton Match Prediction

Alexander Zverev heads into the US Open final with experience on his side, but Ben Shelton has already shown he has the game to trouble the best. The German has beaten Shelton in all of their previous meetings, including four encounters in 2025, and his ability to absorb power and turn long rallies in his favour gives him a clear tactical advantage.

Shelton's route to the final has been hugely impressive, with the American beating Carlos Alcaraz in five sets before overcoming Frances Tiafoe. His serve and explosive forehand can put Zverev under serious pressure, while the Arthur Ashe crowd should give him another boost as he looks to end America's long wait for a men's Grand Slam champion.

However, Zverev's consistency and experience in major finals should ultimately prove decisive. He has the returning quality to make Shelton work for every service game and the patience to wait for opportunities from the baseline.

Prediction: Alexander Zverev to beat Ben Shelton 3-1.