Shelton Stuns Alcaraz in U.S. Open's Latest Finish
Ben Shelton’s record-setting victory over Carlos Alcaraz has sparked debate over late-night finishes, but Andy Roddick has stepped in to defend the integrity of the best-of-five format, insisting the sport's difficulty is non-negotiable even as an all-American final contender emerges.
According to Yahoo Sports, former champion Andy Roddick has defended the five-set format, arguing that the grueling nature of the sport is its greatest asset and that critics failing to offer practical scheduling solutions should appreciate the drama of such marathons.
Source: Yahoo SportsYahoo Sports reports that Ben Shelton paid tribute to Carlos Alcaraz on Instagram, calling the Spaniard an "animal and sports icon" after their epic five-set battle. Alcaraz reciprocated the respect, praising Shelton's maturity and expressing satisfaction with his competitive level while returning from a wrist injury.
Source: Yahoo SportsYahoo Sports notes that Ben Shelton, a Gainesville native and former Florida Gator, will face Frances Tiafoe in the all-American semifinal, with the winner potentially challenging Alexander Zverev for the title. The outlet highlights that Shelton, who is 23, could become the first American man to win the U.S. Open since 2003 if he completes his historic run.
Source: Yahoo SportsAccording to GN sports/tennis (en-US), Alcaraz attempted to shoo away broadcast cameras before vomiting into his towel during a changeover, highlighting the severe physical toll of the marathon match. Despite the defeat, the Spaniard expressed pride in his effort, describing Shelton as a 'beast' who played with complete maturity and no visible weaknesses.
Source: GN sports/tennis (en-US)Slate's on-site account reveals the surreal atmosphere of the match's final hour, noting that Alcaraz appeared to vomit into his towel before 2 a.m. while Shelton maintained serve speeds of 140 mph. The report also highlights that the stadium DJ played DMX music during the fifth set, adding to the chaotic energy as the match surpassed the previous record for latest finish in U.S. Open history.
Source: GN sports/tennis (en-US)According to Yahoo Sports, the match lasted four hours and 28 minutes to become the latest-finishing game in US Open history, ending at 3:33 a.m. local time. Shelton, who hit a 146-mph serve to seal the win, credited the late-night crowd's 'U-S-A' chants for sustaining his momentum through the historic late-night session.
Source: Yahoo SportsYahoo Sports details the dramatic arc of the match, noting Shelton’s failure to convert three break points in the fifth set before sealing the deal with a 10-7 tie-break victory after dominating the middle sets. The outlet highlights that this marks Shelton's first return to the US Open semifinals since 2023 and his biggest career win over a player he had previously never beaten.
Source: Yahoo SportsAccording to GN sports/tennis (en-US), the match concluded at 3:22 a.m., marking the latest finish in US Open history, and ended Alcaraz’s 18-match Grand Slam winning streak as well as his perfect record against American opponents in majors. Shelton, who finished the 18th attempt against a top-three seed, credited the late-night crowd for his motivation before expressing concern for fans heading to work hours later.
Source: GN sports/tennis (en-US)Yahoo Sports reports that Alexander Zverev has emerged as the outright favorite following Alcaraz's exit, while also highlighting that an American victory would end a 23-year drought dating back to Andy Roddick's 2003 triumph. The outlet notes that both Shelton and his upcoming opponent, Frances Tiafoe, will benefit from a two-day rest before their Friday semifinal clash.
Source: Yahoo SportsYahoo Sports confirms the final scoreline as a 6-7, 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 victory, highlighting that this marks Shelton's first career win over a top-three opponent after 17 previous losses. The report also notes that Alcaraz's return from a four-month wrist injury left him visibly lacking in match fitness during the four-hour and 28-minute contest.
Source: Yahoo SportsYahoo Sports reports that the match concluded at 3:33 a.m., making it the latest finish in US Open history, and notes that Shelton has secured a Friday semifinal against Frances Tiafoe.
Source: Yahoo SportsArthur Ashe Stadium held its breath until 3:33 a.m. as Ben Shelton outlasted Carlos Alcaraz, turning a late-night clash into a historic display of endurance and chaos.
Source: GN sports/tennis (en-US)
