Ben Shelton Shocks the Tennis World by Defeating Carlos Alcaraz

In a match that will be remembered as a defining moment in his career, Ben Shelton overcame defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling U.S. Open quarterfinal. The match, which began late Tuesday night and extended into the early hours of Wednesday, concluded with Shelton's victory at 3:33 a.m., marking a significant milestone as he secured his place in the semifinals with a score of 6-7(5), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(7).

Shelton, 23, showcased an impressive array of skills that left spectators and critics alike in awe. Initially dismissed by some as merely a “John Isner with WiFi,” Shelton proved that he is far more than just a powerful server. His serve, which reached a blistering 149 mph during the match, has been a cornerstone of his game, contributing to a remarkable 90.4 percent hold rate over the past year, the second best on tour.

However, Shelton's journey has not been without its challenges. Known for his explosive serve, he struggles with returning, having the lowest break percentage among top-50 players on tour. Despite this inconsistency, his power and agility allowed him to clinch crucial points against Alcaraz. As he prepares for the semifinals, fans are eager to see if Shelton can continue to defy expectations and build on this monumental victory.

Source: defector.com