Ben Shelton Dedicates US Open Final Run to Late Grandmother
Ben Shelton dedicated his historic US Open run to his late grandmother and paid tribute to families affected by the 9/11 attacks.
Ben Shelton's breakthrough run at the US Open 2026 has taken on an emotional significance after the American dedicated his first Grand Slam final appearance to his late grandmother. Shelton defeated fellow American Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-5 in the semi-final at Arthur Ashe Stadium to book a place in Sunday's title match.
After the victory, Shelton spoke about the sacrifices made by his parents and revealed that his father lost his mother earlier this year. He credited his late grandmother with helping make his family's tennis journey possible and dedicated his achievement to her.
Shelton's victory was also historic. The 23-year-old became the first Black American man since Arthur Ashe in 1972 to reach the US Open men's singles final. He will face world No.1 Alexander Zverev, who defeated Karen Khachanov in the other semi-final.
The American also acknowledged the significance of September 11, offering his thoughts and prayers to families affected by the attacks. He called New York one of the world's greatest cities and urged the home crowd to support him in Sunday's final.
Shelton is now aiming to become the first American man since Andy Roddick in 2003 to win a Grand Slam title. However, Zverev presents a major challenge, having won all five of their previous meetings.
