New York Shocker: Ben Shelton Ousts Alcaraz at 3:33 AM, Sets Up Tiafoe Semifinal at US Open 2026

In the early hours of September 9, 2026 (New York time), Arthur Ashe Stadium witnessed a defining night at the 2026 US Open. Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz was dethroned by home favorite Ben Shelton after a five-set epic: 6-7(5), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(10/7), lasting 4 hours and 28 minutes. The match finished at 3:33 a.m., the latest finish in US Open history. Alcaraz had won 18 consecutive Grand Slam matches heading into the quarterfinal, a streak stretching from his 2026 US Open title through his 2026 Australian Open victory, where he became the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam. Shelton, meanwhile, entered with dominant North American hard-court form, including a Montreal Masters 1000 title. He saved his best tennis for the biggest moments, fighting back after losing the opening-set tie-break and eventually winning the decisive 10-point match tie-break 10-7. Shelton later paid tribute to the New York crowd and his opponent, saying it was the most fun match of his career. The 23-year-old American advances to face compatriot Frances Tiafoe in the semifinals on September 11, with both men chasing their first Grand Slam final appearance. Alcaraz's streak ends in New York, leaving the tennis world to ponder just how deep this new generation's rivalry can go.