US Open Tennis 2026 Top Storylines to Watch in Men's Semifinals Bracket

No American man has won a Grand Slam since Andy Roddick won the 2003 US Open.

However, an American man will compete in a major final for just the second time in the past 15 years.

On Friday, Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe will face off in just the third all-American men's US Open semifinal this century.

In the other semifinal, top-ranked Alexander Zverev will take on unseeded Karen Khachanov.

From top storylines to analysis, we've got you covered with everything you need ahead of Friday's play.

Alexander Zverev enters the semifinal looking to reach his third consecutive major final.

Since playing consecutive five-set matches to begin the tournament, Zverev has regained top form, finding his angles on serve while continuing to find success with his improved forehand.

Meanwhile, Karen Khachanov enters as the lowest-ranked US Open semifinalist since Grigor Dimitrov in 2019.

Khachanov has struggled to find his form throughout the year.

The former top-10 player did not win any matches during the hard-court swing leading up to the US Open.

However, he's always consistently demonstrated the ability to elevate his performance in Grand Slams.

Zverev enters as the well-deserved favorite, considering he has reached consecutive major finals.

That being said, opportunities like these surely don't come often for Khachanov, and if he can find his forehand early, he can make this a difficult match.

On Friday, Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe will stride onto Arthur Ashe Stadium for a rare showdown: just the third all-American men's US Open semifinal of this century.

Both players arrive with serious momentum after impressive victories.

Tiafoe staged an improbable comeback, clawing his way back from two sets down to defeat Alex Michelsen.

Shelton, meanwhile, finally slayed goliath, toppling reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz in a five-set classic that finished at 3:33 a.m., the latest conclusion in US Open history.

The 23-year-old is playing the best tennis of his life.

His thunderous serve can top 150 MPH, but it is his ability to blend relentless offense with gritty defense that truly sets him apart.

Tiafoe, meanwhile, has always found his groove during the American hard-court swing.

Now in his third US Open semifinal, the 28-year-old is looking to break through and reach his first major final.

Like Shelton, he can dominate with his serve and forehand.

For Tiafoe, a fast start will be crucial because Shelton has not eased up throughout the tournament.

This clash promises fireworks, but with Shelton's current momentum, he appears to have a slight edge.

Either way, fans should expect a thriller.