Frances Tiafoe’s dream run at the United States was halted by Spanish youth Carlos Alcaraz. He won by scores of 6-7(6) 6-3 6-1 6-7(5) 6-3 to advance to his first major final, where he will face Casper Ruud for the top spot in the world.
The 19-year-old played his previous two five-set bouts into the wee hours of the morning, but on Friday, he displayed no signs of weariness, sprinting around the court to claim the grueling victory.
In an on-court interview, Alcaraz said, “We are in a Grand Slam semi-final and we have to give everything we have inside, we have to battle till the last ball.”
In the Miami Open final in April, Alcaraz defeated Ruud in straight sets.
Alcaraz stated, “I can see the number one in the world, but at the same time it is so far away. It’s fantastic to be able to battle for huge things. First time in a Grand Slam final.
“I have one more game against a player who plays great; he deserves to be in the final; and this is my first time playing in a Grand Slam final at Roland Garros.
“I’ll offer everything I’ve got.”