Shelton powers past Tiafoe to book US Open title clash with Zverev

New York, 19 August 2023: Ben Shelton outclassed Frances Tiafoe in a four-set thriller to advance to the US Open men's singles final for the first time in his career. The 23-year-old American produced an astonishing 20 aces on Arthur Ashe Stadium to defeat his compatriot 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-5, setting up a high-profile showdown against top-seeded Alexander Zverev of Germany in Sunday's championship clash.

The pulsating semi-final saw both players vying for a Grand Slam debut win. Shelton, who had previously eliminated defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals, now stands a chance to become the first American man to clinch a Grand Slam title since 2003, when Andy Roddick won at the US Open. Tiafoe took an early lead by winning the first set, breaking the serve when Shelton faltered at 5-4.

However, Shelton rebounded strongly in the second set, breaking early to lead 2-0 before Tiafoe leveled at 2-2. With Tiafoe's serve wavering, Shelton broke again in the eighth game to take a 5-3 advantage, and he held to even the scores. The third set showcased Shelton's dominance, with Tiafoe having to battle off two break points before holding early.

Shelton's serve was initially measured at 158mph but later adjusted to 144mph. The fifth game saw Shelton seize control with a break, leading 3-2. Tiafoe had to save three break and set points in the ninth game, engaging in an intense arm-wrestle with his opponent. But Shelton capitalized on Tiafoe's second serve with a scorching backhand return, converting when Tiafoe mishit a forehand. The fourth set went back and forth with serve until the 12th game, when Shelton clinched victory.