Fighting off Jannik Sinner for five hours, 15 minutes in a US Open quarterfinal classic, Carlos Alcaraz drew on a special power source.
Rabid, rowdy New York City fans.
Watch: Alcaraz Pulls Off Best Shot of US Open
The US Open set a record for its latest-ever finish early Thursday morning when 19-year-old Alcaraz defeated 21-year-old Sinner, 6-3, 6-7(7), 6-7(0), 7-5, 6-3, in a quarterfinal clash that officially ended at 2:50 a.m.
“I feel great to be in my first semifinal in a Grand Slam,” Alcaraz said. “I feel better reaching semifinal here in US Open. This tournament is amazing. The crowd is amazing, I would say the best in the world.”
After Alcaraz rallied to out-duel Sinner, the Spanish sensation cited the roaring crowd as an inspiring energy source he plugged in to power his electric play.
“I mean, the energy I receive in this court at 3 a.m., it was unbelievable,” Alcaraz said. “I mean, probably in other tournaments, other place, everybody went to their house to rest. But they keep in the court, supporting me. It was unbelievable.
“I feel great to have, well, play a semifinal here in US Open.”
If you were in Miami for Alcaraz’s breakthrough when he defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas, Hubert Hurkacz and Casper Ruud to capture the Miami Open then you know how passionately American fans have embraced Alcaraz.
How much support will Alcaraz receive when he faces American Frances Tiafoe in Friday’s semifinal clash of two young charismatic stars with a shared flair for all-court tennis?
“It’s going to be really, really tough. Frances, everybody know the level of Frances,” Alcaraz said. “He has beaten Rafa Nadal, Rublev in three sets. He’s playing unbelievable right now. High confidence.
“He loves the crowd. He loves this court. I’m going to have to put my best. But right now I’m thinking about this match. I’m enjoying this moment.”
Photo credit: Getty
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