Carlos Alcaraz Advances at US Open as Ben Shelton Exits with Injury

Carlos Alcaraz is through to the US Open fourth round. The Spanish star delivered a commanding performance on Friday. He defeated Italy’s Luciano Darderi in straight sets. The match took place on Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Meanwhile, American hope Ben Shelton suffered a heartbreaking exit. A shoulder injury forced the sixth seed to retire from his match. His departure is a significant blow to the home crowd.

Carlos Alcaraz Dominates With Flawless US Open Performance

Alcaraz won 6-2, 6-4, 6-0. The victory was swift and decisive. It took him just one hour and 44 minutes. He now advances to face France’s Arthur Rinderknech.

The 2022 champion admitted to pre-match nerves. He is not a morning person. His early start required extra focus. According to Reuters, Alcaraz said he was proud of his performance and energy.

He did receive a medical timeout for his right knee. The issue arose in the second set. Alcaraz later confirmed it was not a serious concern. His form appears unaffected as the tournament progresses.

Ben Shelton’s Emotional Exit Dims US Title Hopes

Ben Shelton’s tournament ended in tears. He was leading against Adrian Mannarino when the pain hit. The score was 6-3, 3-6, 6-4. He called for a medical timeout early in the fourth set.

Shelton attempted to continue playing. He ultimately retired after losing the fourth set. The emotional exit was devastating for the young American. He was a semi-finalist last year.

Mannarino acknowledged Shelton’s bad luck. The French veteran said Shelton was likely to win. His exit prolongs the wait for an American men’s champion. No US man has won since Andy Roddick in 2003.

Other Key Matches and Tournament Outlook

Novak Djokovic was scheduled to play later Friday. The Serbian legend continues his quest for a record 25th Grand Slam. A potential semi-final clash with Alcaraz looms.

In the women’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka prepared to defend her title. She faced a tough test against Leylah Fernandez. Sabalenka aims to be the first back-to-back champion since Serena Williams.

Emma Raducanu’s run ended decisively. She was defeated by Elena Rybakina 6-1, 6-2. Rybakina now moves on to face Marketa Vondrousova in the next round.

The path to the US Open title is clearing for some. For others, like Shelton, it ends in painful disappointment. Carlos Alcaraz remains a formidable contender for the championship.

Info at your fingertips

What injury did Ben Shelton have?

Shelton suffered a shoulder injury during his third-round match. He required a medical timeout and was visibly in pain. The injury forced him to retire from the contest.

Who will Carlos Alcaraz play next?

Alcaraz is set to play France’s Arthur Rinderknech in the fourth round. Rinderknech advanced by defeating his compatriot Benjamin Bonzi. The match is scheduled for Sunday.

Has an American man won the US Open recently?

No American man has won the US Open since Andy Roddick in 2003. Ben Shelton was among the top contenders hoping to end that long drought this year.

Did Emma Raducanu win her match?

No, Emma Raducanu was defeated in the third round. She lost in straight sets to ninth seed Elena Rybakina. The final score was 6-1, 6-2.

Is Novak Djokovic still in the US Open?

Yes, Novak Djokovic was scheduled to play his third-round match on Friday evening. He remains a favorite to win the tournament and secure a record 25th Grand Slam title.