Carlos Alcaraz wary of Tiafoe for two reasons after US Open marathon

Carlos Alcaraz outlined two reasons he is wary of US Open semi-final opponent Frances Tiafoe after coming through a brutal marathon against Jannik Sinner on Thursday morning. The teenage Spaniard is set to come up against one of the home favourites in the final four but must first rest and recover after his five-hour classic with Sinner was decided at 3am in New York. 

“Honestly, I still don’t know how I did it,” said Alcaraz. “The level of the match, high quality of tennis. Jannik Sinner is a great player, his level is just amazing. Honestly, thanks to all of you [the crowd].

“I will never be tired to say that all the wins that I have in this court is thanks to the support I receive in the bad moments and the whole match. It’s just unbelievable. I always say that you have to believe in yourself all the time. Hope is that last thing you lose. I believed in my game. I had to stay in the match and try to stay calm, even though it was difficult in that moment.

“Everyone knows the level of Tiafoe – he beat Rafa, he beat Rublev in three sets. He plays great. He has a lot of confidence right now. This court is special for him right now so it’s going to be a very tough match so I’m going to enjoy this moment and my first semi-final of a Grand Slam. Tomorrow, I will have time to think about the match but right now it’s about taking a rest and enjoying this moment.”

We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.

For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/football

Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.

We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.