Shelton ends Alcaraz’s US Open defence in record-setting night session

Ben Shelton has advanced to the semi-finals of the 2026 US Open after defeating defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in a quarter-final that concluded at 03:34 local time. The result marks the latest finish in the tournament’s history, capping a contest that began just after 11:00 p.m. on Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The match, which lasted four hours and 28 minutes, ended with a score of 6-7 (5-7), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (10-7). Shelton, ranked world No. 9, secured his first victory over a top-three player after 17 previous attempts. He had also lost his three prior encounters with Alcaraz, making this a significant breakthrough for the 23-year-old.

Alcaraz, who was returning to competition after a wrist injury that kept him out for more than four months, lost the deciding set in a match tie-break. The seven-time major winner had previously swept past 20th seed Tommy Paul in straight sets to reach the last eight, but his lack of match fitness appeared to impact his performance in the final stages of the contest.

The victory boosts home hopes for an American men’s singles champion, a title not won in New York since Andy Roddick’s triumph in 2003. Shelton will face Frances Tiafoe in Friday’s semi-finals, guaranteeing an American finalist in the men’s singles draw.

According to BBC Sport, the delay in the start of the night session was due to earlier matches on Tuesday. Despite the late start, a large crowd remained in attendance until the conclusion, providing a standing ovation for Shelton’s performance.

Shelton’s run now equals his best ever at a Grand Slam tournament. The result concludes Alcaraz’s bid to retain his title and ends an 18-match Grand Slam winning streak for the Spaniard.