US Open: A Thrilling Match Between Alcaraz and Shelton—The American Comes Out on Top in Five Sets

The epic showdown between Alcaraz and Shelton, with a spot in the US Open semifinals at stake, was won by Shelton, the No. 8 seed, in five memorable sets: 6-7, 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (7).

After more than four and a half hours of top-level play, victory went to the American, who prevailed in the fifth-set super tiebreak, confirming that he has taken another crucial step forward in his career: “I want to thank everyone who is here. A great victory for everyone—for the United States and for me. This is the greatest stadium in the world,” the American said in his immediate post-match comments.

In the final tiebreak, at 3-3, the Spaniard scored two points in a row, further ramping up the intensity. The American’s accuracy slipped, especially on his serve, but he didn’t give up (5-5). The match remained evenly balanced (6-6). A huge forehand error by Alcaraz gave Shelton an 8-6 lead. Another error by the Spaniard set up two match points for the home favorite. He closes it out on the first match point.

Shelton thus defeats his rival Alcaraz for the first time in his career. It should be noted that the Spaniard had not competed in a tournament for about four months due to injury.