Ben Shelton advances to US Open final and acknowledges 9/11 anniversary
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 12, 2026, 5:48 AM
Last updated Sep 12, 2026

Ben Shelton secured a place in the US Open final after defeating Frances Tiafoe in New York. Following the victory, Shelton acknowledged the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks during his post-match comments. He stated that playing on such a difficult day required focus and offered his thoughts and prayers to the families impacted by the tragedy. Shelton also noted the significance of being the first Black man to reach the US Open final since Arthur Ashe. The match took place in front of a crowd that included notable figures such as Jalen Brunson. Shelton acknowledged the challenge of maintaining focus amidst the high-profile attendance and the emotional weight of the date. He expressed gratitude toward his family for their support during his run to the final.
- •Ben Shelton reached the US Open final after defeating Frances Tiafoe.
- •The win occurred on the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.
- •Shelton is the first Black man to reach the US Open final since Arthur Ashe.
- •Jalen Brunson attended the semifinal match at the venue.
- 5:48 AMYahoo Sports — Ben Shelton pays solemn 9/11 tribute after major US Open victory in New York
"Ben Shelton made history in New York by reaching the US Open final. He made it a point to pay his respects to the lives tragically lost during the 9/11 terrorist attacks immediately after.
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