Frances Tiafoe downs Andrey Rublev in straight sets, becomes first American man to make US Open semifinals since 2006

NEW YORK — Frances Tiafoe became the first American man to reach the US Open semifinals since 2006 by beating Andrey Rublev 7-6 (3), 7-6 (0), 6-4 behind the backing of a boisterous partisan crowd in Arthur Ashe Stadium on Wednesday.

The 24-year-old Tiafoe, who grew up in Maryland, put on a performance just as strong, if not stronger, than the one he used to eliminate 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal in the fourth round.

«Man, man, this is wild. This is crazy. Had the biggest win of my life 24 hours ago.… That's huge growth. it's tough to turn the page,'' said Tiafoe, who is seeded 22nd at Flushing Meadows.

Then, looking ahead, and making sure everyone knows this big milestone is not enough to satisfy him, Tiafoe added: „Let's enjoy this one. We've got two more, guys. We've got two more.''

Andy Roddick was the last U.S. man to get to the semifinals in New York, when he lost to Roger Federer in the title match 16 years ago. Roddick also was the last man from the country to win any Grand Slam singles championship, taking the 2003 US Open.

Entering this year's US Open, American men have gone 74 consecutive majors since Roddick won in 2003, which is the longest major title drought the U.S. men have had in tennis history.

Tiafoe also is now just the second active American man to have reached a major semifinal, joining John Isner (2018 Wimbledon).

Tiafoe's first career Grand Slam semifinal will come Friday against No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz or No. 11 Jannik Sinner. They face off Wednesday night.

Tiafoe played aggressive, offensive tennis and used 18 aces along with strong volleying to oust No. 9 Rublev, a Russian who dropped to 0-6 in major quarterfinals. Tiafoe won 31 of 41 points when he went to the net; Rublev only