Ben Shelton shocks Carlos Alcaraz in five sets to win US Open quarterfinal

Ben Shelton has stamped his authority on his home tennis Grand Slam by overcoming two-time champion Carlos Alcaraz in an all-time classic US Open quarterfinal that lasted four hours and 28 minutes at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York.

Shelton held his nerve in the final set tie-break to win the nail-biting match with a 6-7 (5-7), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (10-6) scoreline in the latest finish to a US Open match on Wednesday morning.

The American, seeded eighth in the tournament, enjoyed the home support despite the popularity of the Spaniard, who was looking to defend his title after an injury-enforced layoff.

Shelton will face compatriot Frances Tiafoe in the last four, setting up the prospect of an American finalist for the first time since 2003.

Following the win, Shelton credited the crowd’s support for helping him pull through the thrilling contest.

“Whether it’s my coaches and my team there, all my family and friends here, or the city of New York that showed up tonight till 3am with the USA chants until the very end,” the smiling semifinalist said.

“That’s what kept me going, and that’s what got me this win tonight.

“It’s incredible. I always say that this is the greatest sports city in the world. I say that this is the greatest stadium in the world.”