Ben Shelton defeats Carlos Alcaraz in a historic US Open quarterfinal that became the tournament’s latest finish ever. The American stunned the defending champion after four hours and 28 minutes inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Shelton won 6-7, 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 after surviving a dramatic deciding-set tiebreak. The contest began around 11:05 p.m. Tuesday before ending at approximately 3:33 a.m. Wednesday. That finish surpassed the previous US Open record of 2:50 a.m., set during Alcaraz’s 2022 quarterfinal.
Alcaraz started strongly and claimed the opening set through a tense tiebreak. Shelton responded immediately, dominating the second set with aggressive tennis. His powerful serve and relentless baseline play helped him control the third set. Alcaraz then recovered during the fourth set.
The Spaniard forced a deciding set despite struggling physically during the exhausting contest. He also vomited during a break before continuing. Eventually, Shelton held his nerve during the final tiebreak and sealed a remarkable victory with a 10-7 score.
Ben Shelton defeats Carlos Alcaraz for his first victory over the Spanish star in their competitive meetings. The result also ends Alcaraz’s unbeaten Grand Slam record against American opponents at 13-0.
Meanwhile, Shelton now faces fellow American Frances Tiafoe in the semifinals. Their matchup guarantees American representation in the final. For Shelton, the victory marks one of the biggest moments of his career. The American also strengthens hopes surrounding United States tennis.
Ben Shelton defeats Carlos Alcaraz after producing remarkable resilience throughout an unforgettable New York night.
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