American tennis player Ben Shelton advanced to the US Open final after defeating compatriot Frances Tiafoe 3 sets to 1, with partials of 4/6, 6/3, 6/3, and 7/5, according to reporting from Estadao. Shelton will face Germany’s Alexander Zverev in the championship match on Sunday, September 13.
How Ben Shelton Secured His Place in the US Open Final
Shelton booked his ticket to the title match following a three-hour and fifteen-minute battle against Tiafoe on Friday, September 11. According to match accounts, Shelton shook off a slow start where he dropped the first set 4/6. He recovered his rhythm by firing 20 aces and serving at speeds reaching up to 240 km/h, far outpacing Tiafoe’s three aces.
The 23-year-old American arrived at the semifinal carrying momentum from his quarterfinal victory over defending champion Carlos Alcaraz on Wednesday, September 9. Following that win, Shelton acknowledged his personal growth on the court, stating, “I am mature, I am more focused, I know what my job is and what my goals are, and I am committed to them,” as reported by Estadao.
Frances Tiafoe’s Semifinal Run and Physical Fatigue
Tiafoe, the world number 12, capitalized on early unforced errors from Shelton to claim the opening set 6/4 by exploiting his opponent’s second-serve difficulties. However, physical fatigue took a toll. According to source details, Tiafoe dealt with the lingering wear of a grueling four-hour quarterfinal match earlier in the tournament. He struggled to sustain the physical pace against Shelton, eventually yielding the remaining sets.
Did You Know?
If Ben Shelton wins the US Open final against Alexander Zverev, he will become the first American man to capture the tournament’s singles title since Andy Roddick secured the championship in 2003, according to Estadao records.
Championship Sunday: Shelton Faces Zverev
Shelton enters Sunday’s final as only the second American man to reach the tournament’s title match in two decades, following Taylor Fritz’s appearance against Jannik Sinner in 2024. His opponent, Alexander Zverev, holds the number 2 ranking globally and provides a formidable final hurdle.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the US Open men’s singles final?
The match is scheduled for Sunday, September 13.
Who is Ben Shelton playing in the final?
Shelton will play Germany’s Alexander Zverev, the world number 2.
What was the score of the semifinal match between Shelton and Tiafoe?
Shelton won 3 sets to 1, with set scores of 4/6, 6/3, 6/3, and 7/5.
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