Ben Shelton views his upcoming US Open quarterfinal match against defending champion Carlos Alcaraz as a significant opportunity, despite his career record of 0-3 against the Spanish star. The Tuesday night match at Arthur Ashe Stadium features the hard-serving American against a formidable opponent who has shown no signs of rust from a recent wrist injury. Alcaraz, the top seed, has advanced through the tournament with relative ease, losing only one set in his first four matches. Shelton acknowledged Alcaraz's current high level of play, stating, “To me he looks very normal. His normal, I mean.”
For Shelton, a victory would match his best performance at a major tournament and the US Open. He recalls taking a set off Alcaraz in their last encounter, a Round of 16 match at Roland Garros in 2025. However, their previous two meetings on hard courts resulted in straight-set victories for Alcaraz. Shelton expressed confidence in his current form, noting improvements in his serve, return game, baseline play, and movement since their last match. “I think that it’s definitely going to be a different match playing here,” Shelton said.
While Shelton's powerful serve has been a significant weapon, with an 88% service game win rate and serves exceeding 150 mph, his chances against Alcaraz may hinge on other aspects of his game. Alcaraz has been broken only six times in the tournament and has a strong return game himself. Shelton aims to avoid the fate of other strong servers who have struggled against consistent opponents, emphasizing his need for an alternative path to victory.
Alcaraz, who has won three of his seven Grand Slam titles on hard courts, has been dominant throughout the tournament. Shelton has previously achieved notable wins, including victories over Jannik Sinner in Shanghai in October 2023 and Casper Ruud in Cincinnati in August 2022. However, he has not yet defeated a top-five ranked player at a Grand Slam event. Alcaraz acknowledged Shelton's power and his ability to leverage the home crowd's energy.
