US Open 2026: Tiafo’s semi exit fuels future title chase

New York – The US Open 2026 produced another heartbreaking end for Francis Tiafo, who bowed out in the semi‑finals after a loss to Ben Shelton. The American’s journey to the latter stages of the tournament reaffirmed his status as a consistent Grand Slam contender.

“Winning the US Open is still a dream I chase,” Tiafo said post‑match. “Just thinking about it moves me to tears, like the excitement of a child.” He also expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic support system surrounding him, from spectators to arena staff, all rooting for his triumph.

Tiafo’s record at the US Open is his strongest, with three semi‑final finishes in New York and a habit of advancing to at least the fourth round in six of his previous seven major events. His earlier semi‑final defeats were to Taylor Fritz in 2024 and Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz in 2022. He has also broken into the quarter‑finals at the French Open and Australian Open.

The concluding match of the tournament will feature Ben Shelton against Alexander Zverev, who progressed by overcoming Karen Khachanov. The final, set for Sunday, promises an electrifying climax to the 2026 edition.