Alcaraz reveals what made difference in epic US Open defeat to Shelton

Carlos Alcaraz revealed what made the difference in the deciding fifth-set tiebreak in an epic US Open loss to Ben Shelton.

Shelton stunned reigning champion Alcaraz in a quarter-final that ended at 3:34 am Wednesday, breaking the record for the latest finish in Flushing Meadows history.

The big-hitting Shelton won 6-7 (5/7), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (10/7) on Arthur Ashe Stadium in a 4 hr 28 min classic, ending the Spaniard's hopes of retaining his title in his first tournament back after a four-month injury absence.

Speaking to reporters in a post-match press talk, Alcaraz said he was “happy” and “proud.”

“Well, as I said before the tournament began, my expectation was to go there, compete, play in these kinds of matches, for me, being healthy,” said the 23-year-old Spaniard.

“So, it was close. It was close. So, I’m just a little bit disappointed about not getting the win, but I’m just happy. I’m just proud about myself, about how I fought.”

When asked what made the difference in the deciding set, Alcaraz highlighted Shelton’s serve.

“Well, the serve is a really good weapon in these kind of situations. But sometimes you win, sometimes you lose,” said the seven-time Grand Slam champion.

“I remember the last [fifth set] tiebreak that I played was in Paris [against Jannik Sinner last year]; it was an unbelievable game that I played during that moment.

“This time, when you’re trying to fight, and trying to overcome all the problems that you might have, physically tired a lot.

“And obviously, when he’s serving, he puts a lot of pressure on you. You’re thinking about trying to put the return in, and it’s an unknown if you’re gonna play the point, or he’s gonna get a free point with the serve.

“So, I think in these moments, he takes a lot of advantage with the serve. Not any excuse, but I would say this is an important weapon in these moments.”

Shelton will have an all-American last-four meeting with Frances Tiafoe, who came from two sets down to beat compatriot Alex Michelsen 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 (10/6) in another match that went the full distance.

It ensures a US player will be in the final; no American man has won the US Open since Andy Roddick in 2003.