Ben Shelton defeated Frances Tiafoe in the US Open semi-final, becoming the first Black American male player to reach the US Open singles final since Arthur Ashe in 1972. He will face Alexander Zverev, who beat Karen Khachanov, in Sunday's final.
Shelton won his all-American semi-final against Tiafoe 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-5 after three hours and 17 minutes. Both players were seeking their first Grand Slam final appearance. Shelton’s victory marks a historic moment, as he is the first Black American male to reach the US Open singles final since Arthur Ashe in 1972, and the first Black male player to reach a Grand Slam singles final since Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in 2008. He hopes to become the first American male to win the US Open singles title since Andy Roddick in 2003.
“It’s a lot of emotion,” Shelton said. “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.” He also described his relationship with Tiafoe, stating, “Frances is like a big brother to me, every time that we get to take to this court together and play each other is super special.” Shelton also paid tribute to the victims of the 9/11 attacks.
Alexander Zverev advanced to his third consecutive Grand Slam final, defeating Karen Khachanov 6-3, 7-6 (9-7), 7-6 (8-6). Zverev is aiming for his second major title of the year. Shelton acknowledged his previous losses to Zverev, having lost all five prior meetings, but expressed confidence with the support of the crowd. “I’m going to need you guys on Sunday to bring the energy,” Shelton said. “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.”
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