Ben Shelton Knocks Out Carlos Alcaraz in Epic US Open Quarter-Final

Ben Shelton delivered the biggest victory of his career by defeating defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in a dramatic five-set thriller at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The American won 6-7(5), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(10-7) in a match that lasted four hours and 28 minutes. The victory ended Alcaraz’s title defence and sent Shelton through to the semi-finals, where he will face compatriot Frances Tiafoe.

The Latest-Finishing Match in Tournament History

The quarter-final began at 11.05 p.m. on Tuesday and did not finish until 3.33 a.m. on Wednesday, making it the latest-finishing match in US Open history. Alcaraz arrived at Arthur Ashe Stadium with a 13-0 Grand Slam record against American men, but Shelton proved too difficult to break down on this occasion.

Momentum Shifts Throughout the Contest

Alcaraz clinched a tight first-set tiebreak and looked to have all the momentum. However, uncharacteristic sloppiness allowed Shelton to breeze through the next set before the American tightened his grip on the quarter-final by taking the third. The Spaniard, making his comeback in New York after nearly five months out with a wrist issue, looked flat and made far too many unforced errors on his forehand. Despite his struggles, Alcaraz managed to force a deciding set amid roars from the delighted fans.

Alcaraz Battles Through Illness

The physical toll of the match was evident when Carlos Alcaraz vomited into a towel during the break. Despite his condition, he went toe-to-toe with Shelton for 12 games before his opponent closed out the shock win. The match was a gruelling contest that tested both players to their limits.

Shelton Credits the New York Crowd

Shelton explained how he got through the contest, giving credit to the people in the crowd. He mentioned his coaches, team, family, and friends, as well as the city of New York that showed up till 3 a.m. with USA chants until the very end. He said that is what kept him going and what got him the win. Shelton called New York the greatest sports city in the world and Arthur Ashe Stadium the greatest stadium in the world.

Looking Ahead to the Semi-Finals

Shelton’s victory sets up a semi-final match with fellow American Frances Tiafoe, boosting home hopes of an American men’s Grand Slam champion since 2003. After the match, Shelton joked about hoping his best friend and sister do not have to be at work in three hours. He added that sharing the court with Alcaraz was an absolute honour and that he cherishes every moment he has out there.

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