'I don't really want to talk' - Fritz and Cobolli shocked as seeds tumble

US Open 2026 Results: Shock Eliminations for Top Seeds Taylor Fritz and Flavio Cobolli

BBC Sport reports on the US Open 2026 with a focus on the men's singles.

Key Takeaways:

  • Six top 10 seeds fell in the first week, including Taylor Fritz (9th) and Flavio Cobolli (5th).
  • Fritz led 2-0 against Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina but ultimately lost 3-6 4-6 6-3 6-4 6-4.
  • Cobolli also succumbed to an upset, losing 6-7 (4-7) 6-3 6-0 6-3 to Belgium's Alexander Blockx.

Surprising Upsets:

  • Cerundolo defeated Fritz, who was a finalist at Flushing Meadows in 2024.
  • Blockx ousted Cobolli, ending the hopes of potential American winners and Grand Slam debutantes.

Surviving Top Seeds:

  • Alexander Zverev (1st) advanced to the last 16 despite a tense match against Alejandro Tabilo (25th).
  • Learner Tien (14th) is also through after a five-set victory over Jakub Mensik (17th).

Quotable Moments:

"I don't even know what to say," said Fritz, reflecting on his sudden loss. "I don't really want to talk to anybody... I need to get out for a couple days and then get back to work."

"I think my energy was a little bit lower than the other days," Cobolli admitted after his defeat.

What's Next:

  • Zverev faces Luciano Darderi (21st) in the next round, potentially avoiding any top-10 opponents en route to the final.
  • Tien continues his quest for a maiden Grand Slam title.