Shelton Stuns Alcaraz in Epic US Open Thriller, Ends Title Defense
Shelton Stuns Alcaraz in Epic US Open Thriller, Ends Title Defense
Ben Shelton defeats Carlos Alcaraz in a record-breaking late-night US Open quarter-final! The American's epic five-set win ends Alcaraz's title defense. Don't miss the details of this historic match!
In a match that will be remembered for years, Ben Shelton pulled off a stunning upset against Carlos Alcaraz in the US Open quarter-finals, marking the latest finish ever at Flushing Meadows. The thrilling five-set encounter concluded at an astonishing 3:34 a.m. local time on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.
The big-hitting American claimed his first career win over Alcaraz with a final score of 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (10/7). This epic battle, lasting a grueling four hours and 28 minutes, shattered the previous record for the latest finish in New York, which was Alcaraz’s own quarter-final victory over Jannik Sinner in 2022.
The defeat is a significant blow to Alcaraz, who was attempting to retain his US Open title in his first major tournament back after a four-month injury absence.
Despite showing flashes of his championship form throughout the tournament, Shelton proved too formidable an opponent on this historic night.
Shelton, fueled by the electrifying Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd, unleashed a powerful performance. He notably reeled off nine consecutive games bridging the second and third sets, seizing control of the match by capitalizing on Alcaraz’s flagging serve and dominating rallies that left the Spaniard visibly winded.
With this monumental victory, Shelton matches his semi-final run from three years ago and sets up an exciting all-American semi-final clash against Frances Tiafoe. Tiafoe also battled through a five-set marathon, coming back from two sets down to beat Alex Michelsen 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 (10/6).
Reflecting on the grueling contest, Shelton remarked, “That was a war, epic match, so physical.
Carlos is one of the greatest champions in our sport already at 23 years old.
It's always fun being on the court against him.
It's ridiculous some of the stuff he comes up with sometimes; it's the most enjoyable match that I've had in my career, for sure.” The stage is now set for more thrilling tennis as the tournament heads into its final stages.
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