Washington Open Rocked by Huge Upsets as Alex de Minaur and Ben Shelton Crash Out

 

Alex de Minaur and Ben Shelton Shockingly Eliminated as Brandon Nakashima and Alejandro Tabilo Reach Washington Open Semifinals

The Mubadala DC Open delivered one of its most dramatic days as defending champion Alex de Minaur and second seed Ben Shelton were both knocked out in the quarter-finals. American Brandon Nakashima stunned the tournament's top seed, while Chile's Alejandro Tabilo battled past Shelton in an entertaining three-set thriller.

On the women's side, Jessica Pegula and Naomi Osaka continued their impressive runs, while rising Filipino sensation Alexandra Eala claimed another huge victory by eliminating second seed Elina Svitolina.

Brandon Nakashima Ends Alex de Minaur's Title Defense

Brandon Nakashima produced one of the biggest wins of his career by defeating defending champion Alex de Minaur 7-6(5), 6-4 to book his place in the Washington Open semifinals.

The American served brilliantly throughout the match, firing 10 aces and saving six of the seven break points he faced. His aggressive style kept De Minaur under constant pressure, allowing him to avenge last year's quarter-final defeat at the same tournament.

After the match, Nakashima praised De Minaur's speed and consistency while explaining that strong serving was the key to his victory.

The win keeps Nakashima's dream of winning his first ATP 500 title alive.

Alejandro Tabilo Stuns Ben Shelton

Another major upset followed as Chilean left-hander Alejandro Tabilo defeated home favourite Ben Shelton 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 after an exciting battle lasting more than two hours.

Shelton looked in control early, but Tabilo gradually turned the match around with fearless shot-making, outstanding defense, and creative winners, including a spectacular tweener lob that delighted the Washington crowd.

Tabilo broke Shelton in the final game of the match to secure one of the biggest victories of his season.

Rafael Jodar Continues His Dream Run

Teenage Spaniard Rafael Jodar also impressed by recovering from a poor opening set to defeat fourth seed Lorenzo Musetti 1-6, 6-1, 6-4.

The victory guarantees Jodar a place inside the ATP Top 20 for the first time in his young career and sets up a semifinal clash with Alejandro Tabilo.

Jessica Pegula and Naomi Osaka Advance

Top seed Jessica Pegula booked her place in the semifinals with a straight-set victory over Anna Kalinskaya, continuing her strong form ahead of the US Open.

Former world No.1 Naomi Osaka also fought back after losing the opening set to defeat Elisabetta Cocciaretto 4-6, 6-4, 6-3.

Osaka's reward is a semifinal meeting with Alexandra Eala, who continued her remarkable breakthrough season by defeating Elina Svitolina in straight sets. The Filipino star has now earned six victories over Top-10 players this season, confirming her status as one of the fastest-rising talents on the WTA Tour.

Washington Open Delivers Big Surprises

With De Minaur and Shelton eliminated, the men's draw has been completely transformed, opening the door for a first-time Washington champion.

Meanwhile, the women's tournament continues to showcase experienced Grand Slam champions alongside exciting young stars, setting up an exciting finish to one of the biggest ATP and WTA events before the US Open.

Final Thoughts

The Washington Open continues to produce unforgettable matches and major upsets as the race for the title intensifies. Brandon Nakashima, Alejandro Tabilo, Naomi Osaka, Jessica Pegula, and Alexandra Eala all delivered standout performances to keep their championship hopes alive.

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