In a remarkable display of endurance and skill, Ben Shelton outlasted Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling five-set battle that culminated in a historic late-night finish at the U.S. Open. The match concluded at 3:33 a.m. ET with Shelton claiming victory after firing a powerful 146 m.p.h. ace that Alcaraz couldn’t return, sealing a 6-7 (5), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (10-7) win.
Reflecting on the intense encounter, Shelton described it as a grueling “war” against one of the sport’s top champions, acknowledging Alcaraz’s prowess and resilience. Despite Alcaraz’s valiant effort, which included a remarkable 18-match winning streak in Grand Slam events, he succumbed to Shelton after a marathon match lasting 4 hours and 28 minutes.
Having recently returned from a right wrist injury, Alcaraz expressed satisfaction with his performance, emphasizing the importance of staying healthy and competitive. The late-night showdown drew a dedicated crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium, with fans energizing the atmosphere and rallying behind Shelton, who hailed the support as a testament to the city’s sporting spirit.
The quarterfinal clash marked a significant milestone for Shelton, who will advance to face Frances Tiafoe in the next round. Tiafoe, known for his tenacity, staged a remarkable comeback against Alex Michelsen, securing a spot in his third U.S. Open semifinal. The upcoming Shelton-Tiafoe showdown guarantees an American presence in the men’s final, with both players aiming to capture the prestigious title.
As the tournament progresses, the prospect of a new U.S. Open champion looms large, with contenders like top-ranked Alexander Zverev vying for their first Grand Slam victory at Flushing Meadows. The competition intensifies as the remaining quarterfinalists strive to etch their names in tennis history and seize the coveted U.S. Open title.