US Open 2022 - Carlos Alcaraz battles past Frances Tiafoe in epic clash to reach maiden Grand Slam final

Carlos Alcaraz overcame the gutsy Frances Tiafoe in five brutal sets, 6-7(6) 6-3 6-1 6-7(5) 6-3, to reach his maiden Grand Slam final at the US Open after a classic clash. The third seed, who reached the quarter-finals of the French Open earlier in the season before losing out to Alexander Zverev, lost the opening set to the home favourite but managed to respond superbly.

Ad Tiafoe simply refused to give up in a memorable display of battling tennis and threw absolutely everything at the young Spaniard, but he still came up just short in a pulsating encounter in front of a packed crowd. US Open'He is awesome' — McEnroe hails Ruud reaching final and 'did not see this coming'AN HOUR AGO Alcaraz will take on Casper Ruud in Sunday's showpiece with both rising stars aiming to claim their first Grand Slam title on the biggest stage in the sport inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.

A cagey opening set always appeared destined for a tie-break, with the result equally as predictable as Tiafoe extended his astonishing streak to 7-0 in breakers this fortnight. The New York crowd were incredibly boisterous with the American holding the early lead, but an unfazed Alcaraz showed very impressive composure and resilience to battle his way back.

The Spaniard broke the 22nd seed's serve at a crucial point in the second set to ensure that his response was swift and telling. He was able to consolidate his break and close out the set to get back on level terms.

‘I thought it might not come again’ – Ruud on reaching US Open final 'He is awesome' — McEnroe hails Ruud reaching final and 'did not see this coming' It was at that point that Alcaraz pulled away. He quickly seized a break of serve in the third set to further stamp his authority on the match