Ben Shelton defeated defending champion Carlos Alcaraz 6-7, 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 in a five-set thriller that concluded at 3:33 a.m. at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The match stands as the latest US Open match in history and propels the No. 8 seed Shelton into a semifinal showdown against Frances Tiafoe.
The late-night victory marks the biggest win of Shelton’s young career and his first career win over a top 5 seed in a grand slam. Prior to this match, the American held an 0-17 record against the top three of the ranking.
Match Chronology and Momentum Shifts
The quarterfinal battle began after 11 p.m. ET following the first three matches of the day all went the distance. Both players held serve through the opening 10 games before Alcaraz secured the first break to lead 6-5. Shelton immediately broke back to force a tiebreak, which Alcaraz won.
Shelton responded by dominating the second set 6-1, capitalizing on a double-fault from the Spaniard on set point. The American maintained his momentum in the third set, breaking in the opening game and holding off a late charge to win 6-3.
Alcaraz forced a decisive fifth set by claiming the fourth 6-1, applying heavy baseline pressure that caused Shelton to over-hit. Neither player dropped serve in the final set, sending the contest to a super tiebreak where Shelton secured a 10-7 victory.
Streaks Broken in New York
The defeat ends Alcaraz’s streak of consecutive grand slam finals made at four, as it’s his first quarterfinal exit since the 2025 Australian Open. Entering the match, the defending champion held a 15-1 record in five-setters, alongside 13 straight against Americans and 14 in a row against left-handers. All of those streaks came to an end against Shelton under the lights in New York.
Did you know? The match finish time of 3:33 a.m. makes it the latest US Open match in history.
Player Reactions and Upcoming Schedule
Despite the physical toll and the historic hour, Alcaraz stated after the match that he was tired, but leaves the court feeling happy. Meanwhile, Shelton advances to face Frances Tiafoe in the derby americano.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the US Open match between Ben Shelton and Carlos Alcaraz?
Ben Shelton won the match 6-7, 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6.
What time did the Shelton-Alcaraz match end?
The match concluded at 3:33 a.m., making it the latest US Open match in history.
Who does Ben Shelton play next?
Shelton advances to the semifinale to face Frances Tiafoe.
What were Alcaraz’s previous streaks broken in this match?
The loss ended Alcaraz’s streak of consecutive grand slam finals made at four, his 13 straight wins against Americans, and his 14 in a row against left-handers.
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