Shelton next up as Alcaraz tackles all-American gauntlet in path to US Open final

NEW YORK, Sept 7 : The U.S. Open enters the business end on Tuesday with the quarter-finals where two-time champion Carlos Alcaraz faces another home favourite in Ben Shelton at Flushing Meadows while Aryna Sabalenka keeps her quest for a third straight crown alive.

There are also two all-American clashes in the quarter-finals when Frances Tiafoe takes on Alex Michelsen while Jessica Pegula faces Emma Navarro.

TOP MEN'S MATCH: CARLOS ALCARAZ V BEN SHELTON

Defending champion Alcaraz may be used to adoring crowds at Flushing Meadows, but the Spanish second seed could find himself playing the villain as he navigates a potential all-American obstacle course to reach the final.

The seven-times major winner, fresh off a straight-sets demolition of Tommy Paul in the last 16, faces Ben Shelton in the quarter-final with the prospect of meeting either Frances Tiafoe or Alex Michelsen in the semi-finals should he advance.

"Shelton (is a) really powerful player. He uses the crowd, the people behind him, especially when he's playing here at home," Alcaraz told reporters.

"Really happy to see where my level is right now. Beating Tommy Paul is always great feedback to see where you are."

Despite nearly five months on the sidelines with a wrist injury, Alcaraz appears to have seamlessly picked up where he left off, impressing even his upcoming opponent during their pre-tournament practice sessions.

"He's playing extremely high level. To me, he looks very normal - his normal, I mean - which is impressive after not playing for five months," said Shelton, who is 0-3 against Alcaraz, last losing to the Spaniard at Roland Garros in 2025.

"I think it will be a great match. I'm excited for the battle. Never played him here in New York and obviously in