Match summary
Ben Shelton rallied from an opening-set loss to overcome Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-5 in the US Open men's semi-final to reach his first Grand Slam final. Shelton withstood early pressure in the opening games, then turned momentum in his favour to take three of the next four sets and secure the victory.
The contest featured a tense opening sequence in which Shelton served a 123mph ace down the middle, then faced a break point at 30-all after an unforced backhand error. He recovered immediately, winning three straight points to hold serve and stave off the early break. After dropping the first set, Shelton regrouped and produced the more consistent service holds and timely returns that carried him through the middle sets and into a decisive fourth set.
Zverev books final
In the other half of the draw, Alexander Zverev beat Karen Khachanov in straight sets to reach the US Open final. Zverev’s victory sets up a championship match between the German and Shelton, guaranteeing a new name on the trophy if Shelton prevails in his first major final.
Other storylines
The tournament also produced an emotional arc elsewhere, with Townsend’s run described as a full-circle journey culminating in a US Open triumph. The combined results on the penultimate day underscored the tournament’s mix of emerging talents and established contenders as the event moved into its final showdown.
What’s next
Shelton will now prepare for his biggest match to date against Zverev in the championship round, while attention turns to how both finalists will adapt their games and tactics for the title match at Flushing Meadows.