Slam‑seeding surprise: Shelton defeats defending champion Alcaraz

New Delhi – In a quarter‑final that rewrote the US Open script, Ben Shelton outlasted defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in a marathon five‑set fight. The match, which unfolded over four hours and 28 minutes, ended 6‑7(5), 6‑1, 6‑3, 1‑6, 7‑6(10/7) and set a new benchmark for duration at Flushing Meadows.

Shelton’s powerful service, highlighted by a 146 mph ace on the decisive point, forced Alcaraz’s 18‑match major winning streak to crumble. The Spaniard, who was chasing an eighth Grand Slam crown and a historic back‑to‑back US Open triumph, saw his defense thwarted.

Advancing to the semi‑finals, Shelton will meet 11th‑seed Frances Tiafo, a player he trails 3‑1 in previous meetings. The upcoming clash could see Shelton break through to his first Grand Slam final, while Tiafo looks to capitalize on his favorable record.

The result signals a shift in the competitive balance of men’s tennis, underscoring the rise of young challengers against established champions.