Ben Shelton delivered one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 US Open, defeating defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in an unforgettable five-set quarterfinal.
The American battled for four hours and 28 minutes before securing the victory 6-7(5), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(7). The match ended at 3:33 a.m. in New York, making it the latest finish in US Open history.
Shelton relied on his powerful serve and aggressive game to overcome Alcaraz, who had returned to competition after a lengthy absence caused by a wrist injury. The Spaniard fought back in the fourth set, but Shelton remained composed during the decisive tiebreak.
How important was this victory for Shelton?
It was arguably the biggest win of his career, as he defeated a top-three player for the first time and reached his third Grand Slam semifinal.
Shelton will now face fellow American Frances Tiafoe in the semifinals, guaranteeing an American player a place in the men’s US Open final.
