Injury Woes Strike US Open as Djokovic Prevails and Shelton Withdraws

Ben Shelton’s promising run at the US Open ended dramatically on September 1, 2023, when he withdrew mid-match due to a shoulder injury he described as the “worst pain” of his life. The American sixth seed faced Frenchman Adrian Mannarino on Louis Armstrong Stadium in what had been an entertaining clash before Shelton’s sudden withdrawal left fans and players stunned.

During a medical timeout, Shelton expressed his distress to his father and coach, Bryan Shelton. “I just did something to my shoulder, I don’t know what it is. I’m in a lot of pain,” he said. With the match tied at two sets each, Shelton ultimately decided to retire, marking a heartbreaking conclusion to his campaign.

Historic Performance Amid Challenges

While Shelton faced his personal struggles, the day also saw Novak Djokovic battling through his own physical challenges. The 38-year-old Serbian star overcame a lower back issue to defeat Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-7(4), 6-2, 6-3, advancing to the fourth round. Djokovic’s victory not only eliminated the last British player in the men’s draw but also made him the oldest man to reach this stage at Flushing Meadows since Jimmy Connors in 1991.

With this win, Djokovic surpassed Roger Federer to claim the record for the most hardcourt victories at Grand Slam tournaments, achieving his 192nd win. “I’m good, man. I’m as young as ever and strong as ever,” Djokovic remarked after his match, showcasing both determination and resilience.

Meanwhile, the day was not without its disappointments for British fans, as Emma Raducanu, the 2021 champion, suffered a decisive defeat against Elena Rybakina, losing 6-1, 6-2. This outcome effectively ended British hopes in the women’s draw.

Defending Champions Overcome Obstacles

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz faced his own injury scare but managed to prevail against Italian Luciano Darderi with a commanding score of 6-2, 6-4, 6-0. Alcaraz experienced discomfort in his knee during the match, prompting a precautionary medical timeout. He reassured fans that the injury was not serious, stating, “It was bothering me. But after five-six points, it was gone.”

In another notable match, defending women’s champion Aryna Sabalenka eliminated Leylah Fernandez 6-3, 7-6(2). Sabalenka expressed her satisfaction with the victory, saying, “I really wanted this revenge,” reflecting on her previous upset against Fernandez in the 2021 semi-finals.

The day also featured a significant upset as unseeded American Taylor Townsend advanced with a 7-5, 6-2 win over fifth seed Mirra Andreeva, further intensifying the competitive atmosphere of the tournament.

Despite his heartbreaking exit, Shelton remained optimistic when addressing the media. “I’ve been pretty fortunate with my life: blessings, talents, a lot of things God’s given me,” he noted, emphasizing gratitude rather than dwelling on disappointment.

On a brighter note for American tennis, fourth seed Taylor Fritz provided a glimmer of hope by securing a gritty 7-6(3), 6-7(9), 6-4, 6-4 victory over Switzerland’s Jerome Kym. With this win, Fritz became the only remaining American man in the last 16, with the possibility of being joined by 14th seed Tommy Paul, who is set to face Alexander Bublik on the following day.

As the tournament progresses, the mix of injuries and triumphs highlights the unpredictable nature of the US Open, setting the stage for more thrilling matches in the days to come.