Ben Shelton Beats Alcaraz in Historic 3:33 AM US Open Win
American Ben Shelton defeated seven-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz in a nearly four-and-a-half-hour battle that ended at 3:33 a.m., the latest finish in US Open history. The win guarantees an American will compete in Sunday's final for the first time in years.
The crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium stayed until 3:33 in the morning, and they witnessed something historic: Ben Shelton becoming the future of American men's tennis.
After four hours and 28 minutes of relentless competition, the 21-year-old American defeated Carlos Alcaraz 6-7 (5), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (10-7) in Wednesday's quarterfinal match. The match became the latest in US Open history when the clock passed 2:50 a.m.
Shelton's victory snapped Alcaraz's impressive 18-match winning streak in Grand Slam tournaments. The seven-time major champion had never lost to Shelton before, holding a 3-0 record against the Florida native.
But Tuesday night belonged to Shelton and the fans who refused to leave. "They showed up tonight till 3 a.m. with USA chants until the very end," Shelton said after the match. "That's what kept me going, and that's what got me this win tonight."
The victory means the United States is guaranteed representation in Sunday's final. Shelton will face fellow American Francis Tiafoe in Friday's semifinal, ensuring an American advances to compete for the championship.
Why This Inspires
This moment carries extra weight for American tennis fans. No American man has won a Grand Slam title since Andy Roddick's 2003 US Open victory, a 23-year drought that weighs heavy on the sport.
Shelton's performance showed the grit that defines champions. His serve dominated throughout the match with seven aces and just two double faults. Even when Alcaraz pushed back in the fourth set, Shelton found another gear in the final tiebreak.
The New York crowd played their part too, creating an electric atmosphere that lasted until dawn. Shelton fed off their energy, transforming nervous pressure into fuel for his biggest career victory.
After the final point, Shelton could only laugh about one thing. "I'm just hoping my best friend and my sister over there don't have to be at work at 6 a.m. in three hours," he joked during his on-court interview.
Whether an American hoists the trophy on Sunday or not, this night proved something important: the next generation of American tennis has arrived, and they're ready to compete with the world's best.
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Based on reporting by Fox News Latest Headlines (all sections)
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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