Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe to Compete in Historic U.S. Open Semifinal

On September 10, 2026, Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe will compete in the U.S. Open semifinal, marking a significant moment in tennis history. This match is notable as it will be the first time that two black men have faced each other in the U.S. Open semifinals. The last time a black man won a Grand Slam title at this event was 58 years ago, when Arthur Ashe triumphed. Shelton and Tiafoe will compete in a stadium named after Ashe, with one of them guaranteed a spot in the final. Shelton commented on Ashe's legacy, stating, "[Ashe’s legacy] means a lot. Without Arthur Ashe, my dad probably would’ve never been playing tennis or had the opportunities that he had to go so far in this sport. This sport has given my family a lot. It’s really cool to be able to recognize that and be a part of history every time, playing in a stadium with his name on it."