US Open semi-finalists face recovery challenges following late-night match finishes
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 11, 2026, 9:10 AM
Last updated Sep 11, 2026
US Open semi-finalists Alexander Zverev and Ben Shelton have faced irregular sleep schedules due to late-night matches at Flushing Meadows. Shelton finished his quarter-final victory over Carlos Alcaraz at 3:34am on Wednesday, marking the latest finish in the tournament's history. Alexander Zverev has also played multiple matches ending after 1am, reporting that he has remained awake until 6:45am on several occasions. Experts suggest these late finishes create a physical disadvantage for players who face opponents with more standard recovery routines. While ATP and WTA rules now prevent three-set tour matches from starting after 11:00pm, these regulations do not extend to Grand Slam events. The scheduling has drawn criticism from players and officials who argue the frequency of early-morning conclusions negatively impacts competition fairness.
- •Ben Shelton reached the semi-finals after his match against Carlos Alcaraz concluded at 3:34am.
- •Alexander Zverev reports sleep times as late as 6:45am throughout the tournament.
- •The ATP and WTA 11:00pm start time rule does not apply to Grand Slam matches.
- •Shelton prepares for his next match against Frances Tiafoe scheduled for Friday's night session.
- •Alexander Zverev faces Karen Khachanov on Friday in his first daytime match of the tournament.
- 9:10 AMYahoo Sports — Bed at 6:45am - US Open semi-finalists fight effects of late-night finishes
- 9:09 AMBBC Sport — Bed at 6:45am - US Open semi-finalists fight effects of late-night finishes
"New York is known as the city that never sleeps. But that comes at a price for US Open stars - including men's semi-finalists Ben Shelton and Alexander Zverev.
"New York is known as the city that never sleeps. But that comes at a price for US Open stars - including men's semi-finalists Ben Shelton and Alexander Zverev.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 11, 2026, 9:10 AMBed at 6:45am - US Open semi-finalists fight effects of late-night finishes
New York is known as the city that never sleeps. But that comes at a price for US Open stars - including men's semi-finalists Ben Shelton and Alexander Zverev.
- BBC SportSep 11, 2026, 9:09 AMBed at 6:45am - US Open semi-finalists fight effects of late-night finishes
New York is known as the city that never sleeps. But that comes at a price for US Open stars - including men's semi-finalists Ben Shelton and Alexander Zverev.
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