Carlos Alcaraz Eliminated from US Open After Epic Battle With Ben Shelton

Ben Shelton Outlasts Alcaraz in Quarterfinal Epic

The quarterfinal battle forced Alcaraz to his physical limits against a high-octane opponent. According to match accounts, the intense physical toll of the match caused Alcaraz to experience visible distress on court, including bouts of vomiting during the-back-and-forth contest. Shelton capitalized on his physical advantage to wear down the Spanish star over five demanding sets, ultimately securing the victory in a tense fifth-set tiebreak.

Alcaraz praised his opponent’s level after the match, describing Shelton as a physical powerhouse. “We’ve battled, we’ve pushed a player to the limit who has been playing at a very high level this season,” Alcaraz told reporters in post-match remarks.

Alcaraz Reflects on Positive Return From Injury

Despite the sting of elimination, Alcaraz emphasized that the primary goal of the tournament was achieved: testing his fitness following a nearly five-month layoff due to injury. According to the player’s post-match statements, he departed New York healthy and satisfied with his competitive rhythm.

“I’m leaving the court happy. I’m leaving with a smile, healthy, and this is what I needed,” Alcaraz stated in his late-night press conference. He added that he looks forward to returning home, resuming training, and preparing for upcoming tournaments on the calendar.

Ranking Implications and ATP Point Drops

The quarterfinal exit carries heavy consequences for Alcaraz’s position in the ATP rankings. Because he entered the tournament defending his title from the previous year, the Spaniard forfeits significant ranking points, leaving him with a reduced total in the standings. According to professional tennis rankings data, the drop pushes him further behind the top tier of the classification, with competitors like Alexander Zverev extending their leads near the top of the standings.