World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz secured a straight-sets victory over Alexander Zverev in the US Open quarter-finals, setting up a semi-final clash with world No. 3 Daniil Medvedev. Alcaraz, the defending champion, displayed impressive form throughout the tournament and now aims to face Novak Djokovic in the potential final. Zverev struggled to match up to the young Spaniard’s prowess, nursing a leg injury which seemed to impact his performance.
Ben Shelton and Novak Djokovic are set to face off in what promises to be an exciting semi-final showdown. Djokovic, a three-time US Open winner, defeated Taylor Fritz in straight sets, while 20-year-old Shelton emerged victorious against Frances Tiafoe and making headlines for his expressive match facial expressions. Shelton’s impressive run to the semi-finals, has made him the youngest American man to do so in 20 years. The encounter between the experienced Djokovic and the up-and-coming Shelton is expected to be a thrilling contest under scorching temperatures at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
On the women’s side, semi-final rounds will feature Aryna Sabalenka, soon-to-be WTA world No. 1, facing Madison Keys, and young sensation Coco Gauff taking on Karolina Muchova. Gauff, in excellent form, aims to reach her second Grand Slam final. Gauff reached the semi-finals by defeating Jelena Ostapenko with a score of 6-0, 6-2 in just 67 minutes. Gauff expressed feeling emotionally fresh, in contrast to previous Grand Slams where she felt drained; crediting her improved emotional state to experience and her recent success on the North American hard-cours. If Gauff defeats Muchova in the semi-finals, it will be her second major singles final appearance. Gauff has experienced a significant improvement in her form since Wimbledon; thanking new coach Pere Riba and consultant Brad Gilbert. Muchova, impressive as well, hopes to go one step further after being a finalist in the French Open this year. The eventual winner will be crowned the 2023 US Open champion, marking the third consecutive year of a first-time winner in Flushing Meadows.
