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Germany’s Alexander Zverev has reached the US Open men’s singles final for the second time after defeating Karen Khachanov in straight sets at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Friday. The top-seeded Zverev won the closely fought semi-final 6-3, 7-6(9-7), 7-6(8-6). Although Khachanov pushed him hard in the final two sets, Zverev stayed calm during the crucial tie-breaks and eventually secured his place in Sunday’s championship match. Zverev started strongly and won the opening set 6-3. The second set was much more competitive, with neither player able to create a clear advantage. Khachanov forced a tie-break and even had opportunities to take the set, but Zverev held his nerve to win it 9-7. The third set was another major test for the German player. Khachanov took a 5-2 lead and appeared to be in control, but Zverev fought his way back into the set. He once again performed strongly in the tie-break, winning it 8-6 and completing the victory in straight sets. The result gives Zverev his second US Open final appearance. His first came in 2020, when he faced Dominic Thiem in a dramatic final. Zverev led by two sets before Thiem fought back to win the championship in a fifth-set tie-break. Six years later, Zverev has another opportunity to lift the US Open trophy. His current Grand Slam season has been particularly impressive. He has won 24 of his 26 matches at major tournaments this year, showing remarkable consistency at the highest level. His road to the final, however, was not completely straightforward. Zverev had to win difficult five-set matches against Lorenzo Sonego and Quentin Halys earlier in the tournament. Since those demanding victories, he has improved his level and reached the semi-final without dropping a set. He defeated Botic van de Zandschulp in the quarter-finals before overcoming Khachanov. Khachanov, ranked 50th in the world, was attempting to reach his first Grand Slam final. Despite producing a strong challenge, especially in the second and third sets, he could not convert his opportunities against the experienced top seed. Zverev has already enjoyed a highly successful Grand Slam season, winning the French Open and finishing as the runner-up at Wimbledon. He now has another chance to add a major trophy to his collection. In Sunday’s final, Zverev will face the winner of the other semi-final between Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe. With another Grand Slam title within reach, Zverev will look to finally complete his US Open journey and add another major championship to his growing tennis legacy.