Ben SHELTON claims second career title by defeating Frances TIAFOE at U.S. Men's Clay Court Championships
ATP
Ben Shelton
(No. 16) claimed his second ATP title against Frances Tiafoe (No. 21) at the
U.S. Men's Clay Court Championships. The 21-year-old demonstrated that he not
only excels on hardcourt but can also achieve good results on clay, reaching
his career-high ranking as world No. 14.
In 2023,
Shelton had a poor record of 2-7 on clay, but in Houston, he has already
surpassed his clay record with 4 consecutive wins, including a victory over
clay specialist Tomas Etcheverry (4th seed) and this time against defending
champion Tiafoe.
Read also
For most of
the first set, there weren't many opportunities for either player on serve,
although Shelton was slightly more dominant, winning 77% of service points
compared to Tiafoe's 65%. The first break opportunity came for Shelton in the
tenth game, which was also set point, but Big-Foe managed to come through and
equalize 5-5.
However,
two games later, his luck changed as he conceded another break point, which
Shelton capitalized on this time to take the first set 7-5.
Ben Shelton at 2024 Miami Open last week
In the
second set, it was Tiafoe's turn to break, as he took the lead in the third
game and although Shelton was close from the return, the defending champion
held onto his advantage and won the set 6-4, this time being superior in
service points.
With
tension at its peak, Tiafoe faltered in the final set, having only a 47% first
serve percentage, winning 56% of them, while Shelton raised his level with a
61% first serve percentage, winning 88% of them.
Read also
Shelton
secured the break in the fourth game, and it was enough of an advantage for him
to seal the victory. The 21-year-old youngster held onto his lead without
suffering and ultimately snatched the title from Frances Tiafoe with a score of
7-5, 4-6, 6-3. Big-Foe continues to fall in the rankings, dropping to world No.
23 for failing to defend his title.
Ben Shelton
and Frances Tiafoe are not entered in the Monte-Carlo Masters that began on
Sunday, April 7, and will only return to competition at the Masters 1000 Madrid
Open, which starts on April 22.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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