US Open Semi-finals: Frances Tiafoe vs Ben Shelton 11/09/26

Shelton has shown exceptional mental toughness and quality throughout the entire tournament, and after his win over Alcaraz, he looks ready to take another step toward his first Grand Slam final against Tiafoe.

Betting on set handicap

For the second time in the last two years, we will watch an all-American clash in the US Open semifinals. This time, Frances Tiafoe will have to get past the world No. 9, Ben Shelton, on his way to the final.

Tiafoe reached the semifinals after several very demanding challenges. Already in the first round, he had to survive five sets against a highly motivated Martin Damm, while in the quarterfinals he played a true marathon against another compatriot, Alex Michelsen. Tiafoe won that match after a big comeback in a super tiebreak, securing another semifinal at his home Grand Slam.

On the other hand, Shelton had an extremely tough path to the final stages of the tournament. He defeated, in order, Tallon Griekspoor, Hubert Hurkacz, Denis Shapovalov, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz. The last match in particular was highly dramatic and finished only after 3 a.m. local time. Shelton prevailed after five sets and another super tiebreak, which he won 10–7.

This will be the fifth head-to-head meeting between the two American players, and both are chasing the best result of their careers at the US Open, as well as at Grand Slam tournaments in general. They have previously met twice in New York, with one win each. Both players have also had an excellent hard-court season—Shelton won the Montreal Masters, while Tiafoe reached the Cincinnati final.

All things considered, the impression is that Shelton enters this matchup as the clear favorite to reach the final. He seems to have finally matured for the biggest stage, and throughout the tournament he has passed several serious tests. His win over Alcaraz, regardless of the Spaniard not being in ideal form after a long break, is a huge result and further confirmation of Shelton’s quality. His serve has been outstanding throughout the tournament, while what stands out most is the way he plays key points in the closing stages of sets. The ability to make the difference when it matters most is exactly what separates top players from true title contenders.

I expect Shelton to confirm his excellent form against Tiafoe as well and, without major issues, secure a place in his first Grand Slam final.