Ben Shelton stunned defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in an extraordinary US Open quarter-final that lasted 4 hours and 28 minutes, ending at 3:34 am on Wednesday and setting a record for the latest finish in Flushing Meadows history.
The big-serving American defeated Alcaraz 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (10/7) on Arthur Ashe Stadium in a dramatic five-set battle that ended the Spaniard’s bid to retain his title.
The defeat was particularly disappointing for Alcaraz, who was making his first appearance at a tournament since returning from a four-month injury layoff.
The marathon clash came on a remarkable day at the US Open, which stretched deep into the early hours. Earlier, two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka also survived an epic battle, defeating Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova 7-6 (7/1), 3-6, 7-6 (10/7).
Sabalenka will now meet Jessica Pegula in the semi-finals after the American fought back from a set down to defeat compatriot Emma Navarro 3-6, 6-4, 6-3.
Shelton, meanwhile, will face fellow American Frances Tiafoe in an all-American semi-final. Tiafoe also produced a remarkable comeback, overcoming Alex Michelsen 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 (10/6) in another five-set thriller.
Shelton, who was visibly thrilled by the victory, thanked the New York crowd for remaining in the stadium until the early hours.
“It’s incredible,” said Shelton as he thanked the New York crowd for staying so late.
“I always say that this is the greatest sports city in the world. I say that this is the greatest stadium in the world.
“To be here in front of you guys tonight is an absolute honor.
“Sharing the court with Carlos is an absolute honor, and I cherish every moment that I have out here.”
Sabalenka also had to produce her best tennis to overcome 21-year-old Czech opponent Noskova in another dramatic encounter.
“What a battle,” Sabalenka told the crowd. “I was pushing myself to the limit, especially in the third set.
“I honestly thought that was it, the match was over, and that’s what helped me to feel loose and go for my shots,” she added after trailing 4-2 in the deciding set following two double faults.
Sabalenka’s semi-final against Pegula will be another repeat of a recent Grand Slam rivalry. The Belarusian defeated Pegula in the 2024 US Open final, which remains the American’s only appearance in a Grand Slam title match, before beating her again in last year’s semi-finals.
With Alcaraz eliminated, Shelton’s victory has opened up the men’s draw and set up a highly anticipated all-American semi-final against Tiafoe.
