Ben Shelton defeated compatriot Frances Tiafoe in a four-set US Open semi-final on Friday, September 11, 2026, winning 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-5. The victory sets up a Sunday final against top seed Alexander Zverev as Shelton chases the first American men’s Grand Slam singles title since 2003.
An Epic All-American Semi-Final at Arthur Ashe Stadium
The Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd witnessed a high-octane battle between two of American tennis’s most dynamic shot-makers. Ben Shelton, seeded eighth, dropped the opening set before mounting a decisive comeback to win through in three hours and 17 minutes.
Frances Tiafoe powered ahead in the first set after capitalizing on a Shelton double fault and maintaining pressure on his opponent’s backhand. But Shelton shifted momentum in the second set, sparking a blistering display of serving power. During the match, Shelton clocked a 144 mph serve after Hawk-Eye and the United States Tennis Association reviewed an initial stadium reading of 158 mph. The left-hander finished the contest with 47 winners, including 20 aces, sealing an emotional win.
“First, ‘Foe’ is like a big brother to me. This is where we want to be, at the tail end of this tournament. I know what my goal is, what my job is. I’m going for it here. Let’s do this for the USA! One more thing. It’s a difficult day to be out here playing. My thoughts and prayers go to all the families who were impacted by 9/11.”
Ben Shelton, via Skysports
Chasing History and Breaking a 23-Year Drought
Shelton’s victory carries profound historical weight for American tennis. No home male player has captured a Grand Slam singles title since Andy Roddick triumphed in Flushing Meadows in 2003. Furthermore, Shelton becomes the first Black American male to reach the US Open singles final since Arthur Ashe in 1972.
Reflecting on the milestone ahead of Sunday’s match, Shelton spoke candidly about his family and the sacrifices behind his career.
“It’s a lot of emotion. My mum and dad sacrificed a lot for me to be in this position today. My dad lost his mum earlier this year. She’s the reason he was able to play tennis. Without her there’s no Ben Shelton standing here today. This one is for her.”
Ben Shelton, via BBC
Tiafoe’s Resurgence and the Path to the Final Four
While Shelton advanced to his maiden Grand Slam final, Tiafoe’s tournament exit followed a remarkable career resurgence. Former world No. 1 Lindsay Davenport noted that Tiafoe underwent a major lifestyle shift and fitness regime late last year after working through a difficult period.
Tiafoe reached the semi-finals following a thrilling comeback win from two sets and a break down against Alex Michelsen. Speaking on his development compared to previous deep runs in New York, Tiafoe emphasized his changing perspective.
“I’m just a different person in general. Those two runs were great, something I will cherish forever, but I’m not that person who I was when I made one in 2022 and when I made one in ’24. I’m not that person. I’m excited to see what this me does.”
Frances Tiafoe, via Sky Sports
Alexander Zverev Awaits in Sunday’s Showpiece
Standing between Shelton and the title is top seed Alexander Zverev. The German player booked his place in the final by defeating unseeded Russian Karen Khachanov 6-3, 7-6 (9-7), 7-6 (8-6). Zverev reaches a third Grand Slam final, continuing his pursuit of a second major title of the year.
History favors Zverev in the head-to-head records, as Shelton has lost all five of his previous encounters with the top seed. However, entering his first major final with the backing of a partisan home crowd, Shelton called on supporters to bring intensity to Arthur Ashe Stadium for Sunday’s showdown.
“I’m going to need you guys on Sunday to bring the energy. I’m going to leave it all on the court and I hope you guys come and back me. Let’s do this for the USA.”
Ben Shelton, via BBC
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