Alcaraz Battles Through Comeback Win as Defending US Open Champion

What Happened

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz secured a comeback victory at the 2026 US Open, according to tournament reports, keeping his title defence alive in New York. The same day, Roger Federer was presented with his Hall of Fame ring at the tournament, an honour marking his formal induction into the Tennis Hall of Fame, before watching Ben Shelton compete on court.

Context and Stakes

Alcaraz arrived at Flushing Meadows as the man to beat, having won the title the previous year, and any slip in early rounds would have been a significant upset given his status as favourite. A comeback win, coming from behind rather than a straightforward victory, suggests the Spaniard was tested more than expected, adding an early note of drama to his title defence. Every match now carries extra weight as he looks to become a multiple US Open champion and cement his position at the top of the men's game.

Federer's presence added a symbolic layer to proceedings. His Hall of Fame ring ceremony recognises a career that helped define the modern era of tennis, and his decision to stay on to watch Shelton, one of the American game's brightest young hopes, underlines the sport's ongoing generational handover. Shelton has been tipped as a potential force on home soil, and having a figure of Federer's stature in the stands lends further attention to his campaign.

What Comes Next

Alcaraz will look to build on his opening win and settle into the tournament as the draw progresses, with attention on whether his form sharpens or whether further scares lie ahead against the chasing pack. His ability to close out tighter matches early in a Grand Slam is often viewed as a marker of a champion's readiness for the business end of the tournament.

For Federer, the Hall of Fame ring presentation appears to be part of a broader celebratory appearance at this year's US Open rather than a one-off event, and he may continue to be visible around the grounds as the tournament continues, watching both established stars and emerging players such as Shelton. As for Shelton himself, his performance in front of Federer will be closely watched by American fans hoping for a deep run from a home player. With the tournament still in its early stages, further results over the coming days will clarify how serious a threat Alcaraz faced and how far Shelton and other contenders can progress in the draw.