Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz suffers shocking US Open quarter-final exit
Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz crashed out of the US Open early Thursday morning following a dramatic five-set quarter-final loss to American Ben Shelton. World No. 2 Alcaraz fought hard but ultimately fell 6-7(5), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(7) at Arthur Ashe Stadium. This marks Shelton's first career victory over the Spanish tennis star.
Rust Shows after Injury Break
Returning to the court after a four-month injury layoff, Alcaraz struggled to find his usual court coverage and sharpness. Men's tennis often punishes players coming off extended physical breaks, and the Spaniard's lack of recent match practice became obvious as the grueling contest wore on. Despite edging out a tight opening set in a tiebreak, Alcaraz quickly lost ground. Shelton stepped up his return game, firing powerful forehands to comfortably claim the second set 6-1 and the third set 6-3.
Record Breaking Late Night Finish
Refusing to surrender his title easily, Alcaraz dominated the fourth set 6-1 to force a decisive fifth set. Both players held their serves throughout the final stretch, pushing the match into a high-stakes super tiebreak. Shelton maintained his composure under pressure, securing the tiebreak 10-7. He fed off the energy of the New York home crowd to advance to his second Grand Slam semi-final. Concluding at 3:33 AM local time, this intense battle officially broke the record for the latest finish in tournament history.
