New York: Frances Tiafoe staged a remarkable comeback from two sets down and a 0-3 deficit in the deciding set to defeat compatriot Alex Michelsen 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 7-6(10-6) and reach the US Open semi-finals.
Tiafoe, 28, battled for four hours and 38 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium to reach the last four in New York for the third time, having previously made the semi-finals in 2022 and 2024.
The victory made Tiafoe the first American man this century to reach three US Open semi-finals, matching Andre Agassi’s record of appearances in the last four in 2002, 2003 and 2005.
Michelsen appeared in control after taking the opening two sets and was serving for the match at 5-4 in the third. However, two double faults allowed Tiafoe to break back and level at 5-5. Michelsen saved a set point with an ace at 5-6, but Tiafoe won the next two games to take the set 7-5.
Tiafoe carried the momentum into the fourth set, winning it 6-3 to force a decider. Michelsen again made the stronger start, moving 3-0 ahead, but Tiafoe fought back and held his nerve in the deciding-set tie-break to win 10-6.
Michelsen finished with 173 total points to Tiafoe’s 170, while both players won eight break points each from a match that featured 40 break opportunities. Tiafoe also extended his perfect record against Michelsen to 3-0.
After sealing the victory, Tiafoe celebrated before consoling an emotional Michelsen at the net.
The run has also lifted Tiafoe from No. 12 to No. 8 in the ATP Live Rankings. He is assured of returning to the world’s top 10 in the post-US Open rankings for the first time since September 2023.
Tiafoe will face either defending champion Carlos Alcaraz or fellow American Ben Shelton in the semi-finals.
