Ben Shelton knocks defending champion Carlos Alcaraz out of US Open after five-set thriller

Ben Shelton ended defending champion Carlos Alcaraz’s US Open title defence in a five-set thriller that became the latest-finishing match in tournament history.

Shelton sealed the 6-7 (5), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (10-7) victory with a 146 mph ace at 3:33 AM ET Wednesday after four hours and 28 minutes of play.

"I'm tired. It was a war. Carlos is one of the greatest champions of our sport. It was the most enjoyable match I've had in my career, for sure," Shelton said.

The defeat ended Alcaraz’s 18-match winning streak at Grand Slam tournaments. He battled through the marathon contest despite vomiting before the deciding set.

"I'm leaving happy and my head held high. The truth is, I wanted to win … but also our goal was to leave the tournament having played matches and staying healthy," Alcaraz said.

Shelton will next face No. 11 seed Frances Tiafoe, who fought back from two sets down to beat Alex Michelsen 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 (10-6).