Shelby Rogers played the match of her life on Saturday night at the 2021
US Open, ousting top seed
Ashleigh Barty in a see-saw three-set thriller.
Rogers pulled off a 6-2 1-6 7-6(5) victory under the bright lights of Arthur Ashe stadium, showcasing her entire arsenal as she shocked the World No.1. Barty was inconsistent throughout the first set, hitting errant shots as her often dependable ground game deserted her. The situation was made worse by her American opponent, who played superb tennis and left little room for error in the first set.
Nonetheless, Rogers' dominance was short-lived, as Barty pulled herself together and raced through the second set. The reigning Wimbledon champion dictated play, utilizing her deadly slice to keep Rogers scrambling around the court.
The final set saw the top seed obtain two breaks, with a chance to serve for the match at 5-2. However, an inspired Rogers fought back, employing her deadly backhand to level the score at 5-5. A tiebreak ensued, with the World No.43 prevailing to score the biggest win of her career.
Rogers will face rising British star
Emma Raducanu in the round of 16, as the 18-year old demolished
Sara Sorribes Tormo during their third round encounter.