Home Hopes Dashed: Shelton and Tiafoe Eliminated from US Open

US Open Third Round Results

• Ben Shelton's Injury: Sixth seed Ben Shelton, a semi-finalist in 2023 and recent Toronto champion, retired from his match against Adrian Mannarino due to a shoulder injury. He was leading two sets to one before the injury struck at the start of the fourth set, ultimately leading to his withdrawal.
• Frances Tiafoe's Exit: Frances Tiafoe, the 17th seed and a two-time semi-finalist at the US Open, lost in straight sets to German qualifier Jan-Lennard Struff, marking his earliest exit from the tournament in six years.

Player Reactions

• Shelton's Disappointment: Shelton expressed deep disappointment over his injury, stating he had never experienced such pain before and was unable to pinpoint its cause. He emphasized his desire to continue playing despite the injury.
• Mannarino's Perspective: Mannarino acknowledged his luck in winning the match due to Shelton's injury, humorously noting it was the first time he won a match after taking a bathroom break.

Remaining American Players

• Taylor Fritz's Progress: Taylor Fritz, the 2024 runner-up, advanced to the fourth round after defeating Swiss qualifier Jerome Kym in four sets. He expressed the significance of the US Open for American players.
• Tommy Paul's Challenge: Tommy Paul, who survived a grueling five-set match against Nuno Borges, is set to face Alexander Bublik in the next round.

Historical Context

• Lack of American Champions: The exit of Shelton and Tiafoe leaves only two American men remaining in the tournament, highlighting a 20-year drought since Andy Roddick's 2003 US Open victory, the last men's Grand Slam title for the United States.