Alexander Zverev apologised to the crowd immediately after winning the US Open and showed class in his message to Ben Shelton. Zverev beat the American 6-3, 7-6 (7-2), 5-7, 6-2 after a three-and-a-half-hour battle in New York.
The title, and £4million prize, continues a remarkable year for Zverev, who beat Flavio Cobolli to win the French Open in June to lift his first ever Grand Slam. He then reached the final of Wimbledon in July but lost to Jannik Sinner.
Apology to the Arthur Ashe Stadium Crowd
After beating Shelton to disappoint the home crowd, Zverev headed over to the Shelton camp post-match to personally congratulate each of them. He said to the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd: "Eric, first year as a tournament director, congratulations to you for putting up such an amazing event. I'm sorry it's the wrong winner this year! I did my job but thank you very much, you did amazing."
"The crowd, I know that today 99.9 per cent of people wanted Ben to win so I'm very sorry, first of all. But second, it was an incredible atmosphere to play in. Even though I know the crowd was against me, the crowd was always incredibly fair."
"We as players appreciate it. You guys brought the energy and the noise and we really thank you guys for that."
Zverev's Message to Shelton's Team
Zverev also said to Shelton's team: "Very first thing I want to start off with, Ben you're an incredible player and an incredible person. This was your first Grand Slam final but I already told you, you're going to be back here many, many more times. If I had to bet all my money on it, I would bet that you will lift this trophy one day."
"I want to say well done to Ben's team, to Brian and everyone who is there. To pops. To mum and sister as well, everybody is just important over there as they are on this side of the court. I know it's exactly what my family is."
"That's why I'm so happy to see you guys in these kind of finals and win Masters events and big tournaments. It's a family affair and everybody is pulling on the same strings to be successful. Congratulations to you, everybody who is there. You guys really deserve it."
Shelton's Runner-Up Speech
Shelton said in his runner-up speech: "First and most importantly I want to thank God. Being here and playing in front of you guys is a gift. Sascha, congrats on these two weeks man. Your second Grand Slam title. Two in one year."
"You're one of the very best, maybe the best player in the world this year. What you're doing is incredible the way you're serving and moving and playing. You work harder than anyone I know."
"You put more hours in than anyone else. You and your team do things the right way and I'm sincerely happy for you guys to hold this title. It's been a long time coming here." He signed off with: "I'm just getting started. I'll be back here again. Thank you so much."
