Ben Shelton dethrones Carlos Alcaraz in five-set thriller after latest US Open finish
Ben Shelton defeated defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in a five-set thriller at the US Open that concluded in the early hours of the morning. The match was marked by a dramatic comeback attempt by Alcaraz, which was ultimately thwarted by Shelton's resilience.
Why it matters
This match represents a significant moment in professional tennis, highlighting the emergence of new talent against established grand slam winners.
Ben Shelton celebrates after his five-set US Open victory against the defending champion Carlos Alcaraz. Ben Shelton celebrates after his five-set US Open victory against the defending champion Carlos Alcaraz. US Open Tennis 2026 Ben Shelton dethrones Carlos Alcaraz in five-set thriller after latest US Open finish Winner claims 6-7 (5), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (7) victory
Epic quarter-final ends after 3.30am in New York
Prefer the Guardian on Google As the 10th day of play in New York moved deeper into the remote hours of the new morning, every passing game imbued Carlos Alcaraz with greater despair. From his focused start, the Spaniard’s intensity had flatlined and he could barely put a ball in court. He lost nine consecutive games against Ben Shelton and seemed to have nothing left.
Also covering this story
4 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
US Open: Ben Shelton beats Carlos Alcaraz in five-set thriller in latest-ever finish to US Open match at 3.33am
Shelton beats Alcaraz in late-night epic to reach US Open semis
Ben Shelton stuns Carlos Alcaraz in latest-ever U.S. Open finish
Ben Shelton stuns defending champion Carlos Alcaraz to reach US Open semis
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