Tiafoe Triumphs in Dramatic Five-Set Battle

Frances Tiafoe emerged victorious in an intense five-set match against Ben Shelton, securing his spot in the last 16 of the U.S. Open. The thrilling all-American clash kept the crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium on their feet, ultimately seeing Tiafoe overcome his compatriot to move forward in the tournament.

Frances Tiafoe weathered a Ben Shelton storm in a captivating all-American blockbuster to win 4-6 7-5 6-7(5) 6-4 6-3 and move into the last 16 of the U.S. Open on Friday.

Both players have had semi-final runs at Flushing Meadows in the past and it was the electric Tiafoe who prevailed in a four-hour battle in what was a repeat of last year's quarter-final match-up, where the younger Shelton had won in four sets. The two players are good pals off the court but set their friendship aside and after Shelton promised a 'war', the clash lived up to its billing, bringing the crowd to its feet on several points and rallies as the match went the distance.

Shelton, who held a 2-0 head-to-head record going into the contest, fired 23 aces and 63 winners but ultimately Tiafoe exacted revenge and earned a fourth-round clash with either defending champion Novak Djokovic or Alexei Popyrin. "Ben's an incredible player man, he really is. He goes for all kinds of shots, he's got no care in the world, it's really annoying. He's got a great serve and he has great energy out here," Tiafoe said.

"He can come up with great shots, so can I. We both move really well, so it's just highlight after highlight. I really hope you guys enjoyed the show, four hours of this battle."

(With inputs from agencies.)