Carreno Busta into semi-finals

Originally published on 05/09/17 00:00

It’s been an unforgettable tournament for the ever-improving Spaniard and he has reached last four without conceding a set. His gamestyle may not wow spectators, but his work-ethic can only be admired.

It’s a first ever Grand Slam semi-final for the No.12 seed and he is almost certain to climb to a new career-high ranking on Monday. The 26-year-old has made significant progress this year and he only secured his first ever Top 10 win against Milos Raonic at the French Open in June.

“This is something I've always dreamed about, but I never thought it would arrive,” said Carreno Busta. ‘It’s very exciting to be in the semi-finals of this tournament and it was a very good match today.

“I tried to be focused all the time because Diego is a fighter. I tried to be aggressive and dominate the points, because if not, Diego would beat me for sure.”

Schwartzman, in his first major quarter-final, hurt his right leg in his fourth round win over Lucas Pouille and he made a slow start to the biggest match of his career. He dropped serve immediately and was always playing catch up.

The Spaniard was quite content to trade with the Argentinian from the baseline and wait for an error, more often than not, Schwartzman obliged. There were a number of tight games throughout the contest but Carreno Busta tended to win the majority of big points.

Consistency was the key for the Spaniard but Schwartzman never hit top gear and he is unlikely to remember his first outing on Arthur Ashe with any fondness.

Carreno Busta will take on Kevin Anderson in the last four. The big-serving South African won a late-night battle with Sam Querrey 7-6(5) 6-7(9) 6-3 7-6(7).

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