Ben Shelton made history at the 2026 US Open by defeating top-ranked Carlos Alcaraz in a grueling five-set quarterfinal match that ended at 3:33 am local time on Wednesday, September 9. The match, lasting four hours and 28 minutes, was one of the longest in US Open history and ended with a score of 6-7 (5-7), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (10-7). Shelton, ranked eighth, advanced to the semifinals, where he will face fellow American Frances Tiafoe, who also won his quarterfinal in five sets. The win ended Alcaraz’s 18-match winning streak in Grand Slam tournaments and marked the end of his title defense. Alcaraz had returned to competition nearly five months after suffering a wrist injury and had previously set the record for the latest finish in US Open history with his 2022 quarterfinal match against Jannik Sinner, which ended at 2:50 am. This match was particularly intense, with both players showing significant physical strain. Alcaraz reportedly vomited before the start of the final set, highlighting the extreme conditions they faced. Shelton had never before defeated Alcaraz in their three previous encounters and had not beaten a top-three player in 17 attempts. This victory marked Shelton’s third career Grand Slam semifinal appearance and his second at Flushing Meadows, following his 2023 run. The match took place after a day of marathon contests at the tournament, with the quarterfinals starting around 11 pm due to earlier delays. Played under the lights in Arthur Ashe Stadium, the match drew a large crowd that remained throughout the night, showing support for both players. Shelton’s win has raised hopes of an American men’s singles champion at the US Open for the first time since Andy Roddick won the title in 2003. Shelton’s performance was highlighted by powerful serves, some exceeding 140 mph, with a decisive 146 mph serve in the tiebreaker that secured his victory. Despite his efforts, Alcaraz was unable to overcome the physical and mental challenges of the match, which pushed both players to their limits.