After making it into the quarterfinals by beating Tommy Paul in Round 16, Carlos Alcaraz appears poised to defend his US Open title once more. Unfortunately, an unexpected question asked during an interview by Andy Roddick and ESPN threw Alcaraz off guard and sent his nerves jangling.
Roddick asked Carlos: “Carlos, your eyes will certainly be on tomorrow’s match between Shelton and Tsitsipas; could you provide some insights as to their respective challenges that both could bring?” However, World No.3 appeared baffled as to why Roddick had asked about Ben Shelton or Stefanos Tsitsipas specifically?
Clarifying further, Roddick added, “You’re either going to play Shelton or Tsitsipas.” Reacting with surprise, Alcaraz replied, “Oh my god.”
Roddick, equally surprised by Alcaraz’s reaction, said, “Surprise. You’re welcome.” Alcaraz, momentarily at a loss for words, responded, “I didn’t seem to know. Oh my God, all right.”
This exchange marked one of the lighter moments on television, as Alcaraz initially thought Frances Tiafoe was his next opponent, only to learn it would be either Shelton or Tsitsipas.
Following the surprise, Alcaraz stated he would watch the upcoming match closely and prepare accordingly. Meanwhile, Tiafoe created an upset by defeating World No.7 Daniil Medvedev, setting up a quarterfinal clash against fellow American Alex Michelsen.
Despite these developments, Alcaraz’s form remains formidable. Throughout four rounds, he has dropped only one set, which occurred in the second round against Jaime Faria. Since then, he has won all matches in straight sets, dispatching opponents like Wu Yibing and Tommy Paul with ease.
Alcaraz’s next challenge against Ben Shelton promises to be more demanding. The two players have contrasting styles: Alcaraz prefers to build points methodically and rely on his physicality, whereas Shelton adopts an aggressive approach, aiming to shorten rallies and capitalize on his powerful serve.
Shelton typically keeps rallies between three and three-and-a-half shots, focusing on winning points quickly, especially on his first serve. He wins 72% of points on his first serve compared to 55% on his second.
Although Shelton has yet to defeat Alcaraz, he boasts victories over top players including Frances Tiafoe, Daniil Medvedev, Jannik Sinner, and notably defeated Tsitsipas in straight sets during this US Open. Playing on home soil, Shelton could pose a significant threat, making this quarterfinal a compelling matchup.
Carlos Alcaraz Gains Confidence in Title Defense
Having advanced to the US Open quarterfinals after beating Tommy Paul, Alcaraz now faces Ben Shelton, who recently overcame Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets. After four rounds, Alcaraz has transitioned from cautiously managing a wrist injury to confidently believing he can defend his title.
Arriving after nearly four months out due to a wrist injury, Alcaraz was uncertain how his wrist would hold up under pressure in New York’s intense atmosphere.
“At the beginning of the tournament I didn’t have any expectations,” Alcaraz admitted after reaching the quarter-finals.
However, successive wins have bolstered his confidence, and against Paul, he remained aggressive during extended rallies, often finishing points with powerful forehands.
“After four really good matches, now I feel capable of winning the tournament,” he shared following his convincing performance.
Alcaraz can draw great encouragement from one significant trend; ever time he has won against Tommy Paul at a Grand Slam tournament (Wimbledon 2024, Roland Garros 2025 and Australian Open 2026) subsequent victories have resulted in him lifting its trophy and this could repeat itself at New York.
Alcaraz will need his wrist fully prepared and his game to reach its highest peak against Shelton for him to advance further in their matchup.