Ben Shelton Ends Carlos Alcaraz’s Title Run in Historic U.S. Open Match

On a historic morning in New York, Ben Shelton defeated Carlos Alcaraz in a dramatic U.S. Open quarterfinals match. This gripping encounter, concluding at 3:33 a.m., marked the latest finish in the tournament’s history.

Shelton emerged victorious with scores of 6-7 (5), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (10-7). The match spanned 4 hours and 28 minutes, halting Alcaraz’s impressive 18-match winning streak in Grand Slam events.

Shelton’s victory advances him to face No. 11 seed Frances Tiafoe in the semis. Tiafoe reached his third U.S. Open semifinal after defeating Alex Michelsen in a five-set battle. He won with scores of 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 (10-6).

This thrilling victory guarantees a U.S. presence in Sunday’s final. It is an opportunity to achieve the first American men’s major title since Andy Roddick’s triumph in 2003.

Previously, Alcaraz was part of the latest U.S. Open finish when he defeated Jannik Sinner at 2:50 a.m. in the 2022 quarterfinals. In this round, Alcaraz battled valiantly despite a right wrist injury, his first tournament appearance since April.

Fans packed Arthur Ashe Stadium, enthusiastically supporting Shelton, chanting his name and “USA! USA!” Shelton expressed his excitement, acknowledging New York as the best sports city and Arthur Ashe as the greatest stadium.

I hope my best friend and sister don’t have to be at work in three hours at 6 a.m., Shelton joked, reflecting the late-night adventure.

In other tournament highlights, Aryna Sabalenka edged Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova, aiming for her third consecutive U.S. Open title.

Shelton reached his third major semifinal in this match. Previously, he had advanced to the semis in the 2023 U.S. Open and the 2025 Australian Open. During the game, Shelton won nine consecutive games, gaining a significant lead.

Alcaraz showed resilience, battling back even after vomiting before the final set. In the tiebreaker, he surged ahead but was eventually outpowered by Shelton’s fierce serves exceeding 140 mph, culminating in a crucial 146 mph serve.

Alcaraz holds a remarkable 15-2 record in five-set matches. He began this year by claiming his seventh Grand Slam title at the Australian Open before an injury pause.