Alcaraz reacts after ESPN draw mix-up suggests Shelton or Tsitsipas as US Open quarterfinal opponent

Alcaraz was surprised to learn during an interview on ESPN after his victory Sunday that his quarterfinal match would be against either Ben Shelton or Stefanos Tsitsipas in a match that Shelton later won.

Alcaraz was surprised to learn during an interview on ESPN after his victory Sunday that his quarterfinal match would be against either Ben Shelton or Stefanos Tsitsipas in a match that Shelton later...

Carlos Alcaraz produced one of the most entertaining moments of his US Open run when he discovered his expected quarterfinal opponent was not who he thought it would be. After defeating Tommy Paul 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in the round of 16, the defending champion appeared ready to discuss the next stage of his title defense.Instead, a surprise correction from Andy Roddick left Alcaraz visibly stunned during a live television interview.Carlos Alcaraz was in shocked and confused when Andy Roddick asked him about a potential Ben Shelton or Stefanos Tsitsipas matchup . Bro thought he was facing Tiafoe or Medvedev pic.twitter.com/uSHrdqkXo6— Gio (@jsmove7) September 6, 2026 Alcaraz got his draw wrongAlcaraz initially believed his next opponent would come from the clash between Frances Tiafoe and Daniil Medvedev. Roddick then revealed that the quarterfinal would actually feature the winner of Ben Shelton and Stefanos Tsitsipas. Alcaraz’s immediate reaction of shock drew laughter and quickly became one of the tournament’s most memorable off-court moments. “You’re either going to play Shelton or Tsitsipas,” Roddick said. “Maybe just a word on both of them and the challenges …”Roddick quizzed the Spaniard on his interview for ESPN. Alcaraz shook, said “Really? Oh my God, I thought I was playing Medvedev-Tiafoe,” before bursting into laughter. Alcaraz has built a reputation of being easy going and the exchange added to his image. It is what endears him to the fans, who loved his candidness during the interview.'I'm So Jealous': Aryna Sabalenka Envious Of Carlos Alcaraz's Hair, Hilarious Conversation Goes Viral During US Open 2026 | Video Shelton Earns His ChanceShelton later made sure there would be no confusion about the matchup, powering past Tsitsipas 6-2, 6-3, 6-4. The American delivered an impressive performance from start to finish, controlling the match with aggressive tennis and keeping Tsitsipas under pressure. His victory earned him a quarterfinal meeting with Alcaraz on Tuesday.