Ben SHELTON claims second career title by defeating Frances TIAFOE at U.S. Men's Clay Court Championships

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.

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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.

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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.

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