Alcaraz tennis stunner was even more surreal in person.
Slate • • sports
Key Points:
- Carlos Alcaraz and Ben Shelton played one of the latest-finishing matches in U.S. Open history, with Shelton winning a dramatic five-set quarterfinal 6–7(5), 6–1, 6–3, 1–6, 7–6(10–7) at 3:33 a.m.
- The match featured intense moments including Alcaraz vomiting mid-game, Shelton serving at speeds exceeding 140 mph late into the night, and a lively crowd despite the early hour.
- This victory sets Shelton up for a semifinal clash against Frances Tiafoe, with the winner aiming to become the first American man to win a major since 2003.
- The event was marked by unusual scenes such as custodial staff cleaning courtside during play and a DJ spinning music past 3 a.m., highlighting the unprecedented late-night atmosphere.
- Despite physical and mental exhaustion, both players delivered high-quality tennis, with Shelton’s resilience and powerful serving ultimately securing the win in a historic match.
