Shelton stuns Alcaraz in five-set epic to reach U.S. Open semi-finals

NEW YORK : Ben Shelton stunned defending champion Carlos Alcaraz 6-7(5) 6-1 6-3 1-6 7-6(10-7) in the early hours of Wednesday to reach the U.S. Open semi-finals in the latest-finishing match in tournament history.

The American will face compatriot Frances Tiafoe in the last four, keeping alive hopes of a first U.S. men’s Grand Slam singles champion since 2003.

The match began at 11:05 p.m. on Tuesday and ended at 3:33 a.m. Wednesday after four hours and 28 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Seven-times Grand Slam champion Alcaraz arrived with a 13-0 record against U.S. men at the majors but struggled to contain Shelton, who recovered from losing a tight opening-set tiebreak to take control of the match.

Alcaraz’s unforced errors increased as Shelton raced through the second set and took the third, leaving the Spaniard facing elimination.

Making his return to New York after nearly five months out with a wrist injury, Alcaraz fought back in the fourth set to force a decider, but Shelton held firm in a tense final set that went to a match tiebreak.

Alcaraz vomited into a towel during the break before the deciding set but remained competitive for 12 games. Shelton then prevailed 10-7 in the tiebreak to complete one of the biggest wins of his career.

“For me it’s always about the people in the crowd,” Shelton said.

“That’s what kept me going, and that’s what got me this win tonight.”

Shelton also praised the New York crowd, which stayed until the finish and repeatedly chanted for the American.

“To be here in front of you guys tonight is an absolute honour. Sharing the court with Carlos is an absolute honour, and I cherish every moment I have out here,” he said.