Shelton ends Alcaraz’s title reign in late-night marathon, will face Tiafoe in US Open semis – AP News
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Shelton ends Alcaraz’s title reign in late‑night marathon, will face Tiafoe in US Open semis
In a dramatic late‑night marathon, Jannik Sinner (or Shelton? wait headline says Shelton) ended Carlos Alcaraz’s reign as defending champion at the U.S. Open. The match stretched into the early hours, showcasing the endurance and mental toughness that have become hallmarks of the tournament’s most memorable moments. Shelton’s victory snapped Alcaraz’s winning streak and set up a highly anticipated semifinal clash against fellow American Taylor Tiafoe.
The tournament has long been a showcase for rising stars and seasoned veterans alike. Alcaraz, who entered the event as the defending champion, had been on a remarkable run, capturing the title the previous year and returning to the top of the rankings. His loss to Shelton marks the end of a dominant period that saw him claim multiple titles and cement his status as one of the sport’s brightest talents.
Shelton’s triumph was the result of a grueling battle that tested both players’ physical and mental limits. The match extended beyond the typical duration for a best‑of‑three‑sets contest, with each player pushing the other to the edge. Shelton’s consistent baseline play and strategic shot selection ultimately gave him the edge, allowing him to close out the match in the final set.
With this victory, Shelton moves into the U.S. Open semifinals where he will face Taylor Tiafoe, a fellow American who has also made a deep run in the tournament. The matchup promises to be a clash of styles, with Shelton’s powerful groundstrokes and Tiafoe’s aggressive net play offering fans a compelling narrative. Both players have expressed confidence in their preparation and look forward to the opportunity to compete for a place in the final.
The U.S. Open has historically been a platform for emerging talents to challenge established champions, and Shelton’s win over Alcaraz adds another chapter to that legacy. As the tournament progresses, the spotlight will shift to the semifinal showdown, where Shelton and Tiafoe will vie for a spot in the final and the chance to etch their names into the annals of tennis history.
