4th career main tour final‼️ Tommy Paul defeats Ben Shelton for the 2nd time out of 4 career meetings and is into the ATP 250 Dallas F 6-2 6-4, saving 3/3 break points Up to 6-2 in 2024, will play tomorrow for this 2nd title
Dominant Tommy PAUL sends Ben SHELTON packing and secures spot in Dallas Open Final
ATPSaturday, 10 February 2024 at 22:31
Tommy Paul (No. 15) had no trouble defeating Ben Shelton (No. 16) with a scoreline of 6-2, 6-4 to secure the fourth final of his career. In the head-to-head, Shelton led 2-1, with three encounters in 2023, including two in Grand Slam events. The first was in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open (won by Paul), and the second in the fourth round of the US Open, this time with Shelton emerging victorious.
In a highly anticipated match for the local fans, the duel began in a contested manner, with both players showcasing strengths in their returns. In the first two service games, Shelton had to save two break points, while Paul also had to navigate a challenging moment with three break points against him in the fourth game.
Shelton's level rose after overcoming the adverse situation, winning a total of 5 consecutive games, including two breaks, to take the first set with an imposing 6-2 score. Similar to his recent matches, Shelton struggled with his second serve, completing only 60% of the first serve, winning 56%, and a mere 33% with the second.
In recent matches, it became evident that when Shelton is not sharp with his first serve, he finds it challenging against high-level opponents. Paul capitalized on the opportunities provided by Shelton and made just one unforced error in the set to take a surprising lead over the young star.
The second set once again tilted in Paul's favor in the early games. He secured a break in the third game after Shelton offered three consecutive opportunities. Paul took a 3-1 lead and maintained the level with his service. Although Shelton did not concede more break opportunities, he also couldn't create a space to make a comeback in the match.
Tommy Paul eventually clinched the victory with a 6-2, 6-4 score in another impressive performance, leveling the head-to-head with his compatriot to 2-2 and advancing to the fourth final of his career. This will be the first time that the American will play for the title in front of his home crowd, seeking the second title of his career. In the final, he awaits the winner of the match between Marcos Giron (No. 67) and the 4th seed Adrian Mannarino (No. 17).
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- Must be okay to do this because WTA apparently could care less. They seem to be even more distant since the Saudi's filled their personal bank accounts. This particular smashing was extreme... and in front of so many little children who (unfortunately in some cases) look up to these players.
mandoist02-05-2024 - Unfortunately the WTA & ITF Fat-Cats are comfortable lounging in their elite surroundings and do not hear anything they do not wish to hear. Not to mention how any compassion, concerns, or sensibility toward the general overall health of players likely went away with their filthy Saudi pocket money.mandoist02-05-2024
- Brilliantly said Elena.MrAndreeva02-05-2024
- "Shut your mouth, Shut your mouth" (remember that, Loser?)mandoist01-05-2024
- Mental illness is hard to deal with under pressure... especially when one is a spoiled brat. Don't go away mad Osta -- just go away.mandoist01-05-2024
