The Athletic is providing live updates from the 2026 U.S. Open men’s semifinals. On Friday night in New York, Ben Shelton, a 23-year-old from Florida known for his powerful serve, claimed a career-defining victory. He defeated Frances Tiafoe in an all-American semifinal, winning 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-5. This victory earned Shelton a place in Sunday’s final against Alexander Zverev from Germany at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
This marks an opportunity for Shelton to break the 23-year-long Grand Slam drought for American men. The long absence of American winners seemed unlikely decades ago, given the country’s strong history in tennis. However, a succession of European players, a shift of top American athletes to other sports, and strategic missteps in American tennis led to this extended period without championships for American men. Despite depth in talent, no American has emerged to challenge the very best consistently.
“I’ve been able to downplay the moment pretty well,” Shelton shared during an early Saturday news conference.
Shelton carries both the pressure of trying to end the drought and the broader historical significance of representing Black athletes in tennis. No Black man has won the U.S. Open title since Arthur Ashe in 1968, and Shelton recognizes the legacy he represents.
Tiafoe fought hard in their match, especially in the closing set. He returned a near-perfect topspin lob after Shelton seemed on the brink of victory, extending the match. However, Shelton capitalized as Tiafoe faltered, clinching the match as Tiafoe double-faulted.
Shelton’s journey to the final has not been without challenges. His previous Grand Slam semifinal appearances at the 2023 U.S. Open and the 2025 Australian Open both ended in losses to Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner, respectively. However, Shelton triumphed over world-class player Carlos Alcaraz earlier in this tournament, further proving his capabilities.
His preparation intensified following a first-round exit at Wimbledon, as noted by his father and coach, Bryan Shelton. Shelton dedicated himself to rigorous training in Florida, improving his endurance, skill, and consistency on the court in preparation for the U.S. Open.
During the match with Tiafoe, Shelton initially showed signs of struggle. However, he adjusted his play, increasing precision and power to win the necessary sets. His efforts demonstrated resilience and tactical intelligence throughout the game.
Now, Shelton prepares to face Zverev, whom he has never defeated in their five previous matchups. Zverev’s reputation for dominating against left-handers poses a challenge, yet Shelton’s growth and determination to make history for American tennis instill hope.
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