Ben Shelton has produced one of the biggest shocks of the 2026 US Open, knocking defending champion Carlos Alcaraz out in a dramatic five-set quarter-final at Flushing Meadows.
The American battled for more than four hours to defeat the world No. 3 6-7, 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6, sending the home crowd into celebration.
The match became the latest finish in US Open history, ending in the early hours of Wednesday morning after a marathon four hours and 28 minutes.
Shelton Holds His Nerve
Alcaraz appeared to have regained control after forcing the match into a deciding set, but Shelton refused to buckle.
The American delivered under enormous pressure in the final tiebreak, sealing the victory and earning his place in the semi-finals.
The result is particularly significant for Shelton, who had never previously beaten a top-three opponent. He now has a chance to reach his first Grand Slam final on home soil.
All-American Semi-Final
Shelton’s reward is an all-American semi-final against Frances Tiafoe, who also produced a remarkable comeback to defeat Alex Michelsen.
Tiafoe recovered from two sets down to win 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 7-6, reaching his third US Open semi-final.
The result guarantees an American finalist in this year’s men’s singles draw and has reignited hopes of a first US men’s Grand Slam champion since 2003.
Sabalenka Keeps Her Title Defence Alive
In the women’s draw, defending champion Aryna Sabalenka survived a major test from Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova.
The world No. 1 won 7-6, 3-6, 7-6 and has now reached the US Open semi-finals for a sixth consecutive year. She is chasing a third straight title in New York.
With the tournament entering its final stages, the US Open has already delivered major upsets, marathon battles and a growing American challenge for the men’s title.
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