Europe in trouble: Shelton and Tabilo power past Tsitsipas/Ruud to extend Team World’s lead
ATPSaturday, 21 September 2024 at 22:57
Ben Shelton
and Alejandro Tabilo extend Team World’s lead after defeating Stefanos
Tsitsipas and Casper Ruud in the Laver Cup doubles match, winning 6-1, 6-2. The
European duo is left in a difficult position heading into the 3rd day, with
World leading 8-4.
As soon as
the match started, Shelton and Tabilo won their service games with ease, but
Ruud was the first to lose his serve, giving Team World a 3-0 lead. Tsitsipas
also struggled to hold his serve against Team World's strong baseline
exchanges.
Ruud
managed to hold his serve once, but it was merely a formality in the 6-1 result
in favor of Shelton/Tabilo. The Team World pair was relentless, achieving an
89% first serve success rate and winning 88% of those points, far surpassing
the Europeans' 54% first serve rate, of which they won only 57%.
In the
second set, Tsitsipas began serving, but the Europeans lost their serve for the
third time. On the other side, the left-handers showed great team chemistry and
consistently dominated their service games.
Team Europe
applied some pressure when Tsitsipas and Ruud managed to hold serve despite
difficulties. With Tabilo serving, the Europeans earned a couple of break
points for the first time, taking advantage of Tabilo’s issues with his first
serve and a few Shelton errors at the net in the match’s longest game, lasting
over 10 minutes.
However,
Team Europe failed to capitalize on the momentum, and Ruud once again lost his
serve. Despite matching the pace of the game at moments during the set, it
wasn’t enough for a comeback. Ultimately, Shelton/Tabilo sealed the win 6-1,
6-2 after an hour and 8 minutes of play.
At the end
of day two, Team World leads 8-4 thanks to a strong day with three wins out of
four matches. The final day of competition will be on Sunday, where each match
will count for 3 points. Team World needs just two victories out of the four
matches to claim the title for the third consecutive year.
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.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- WOW !!! Her comebacks have been intense. She's Baaaaack!
mandoist08-09-2026 - Don't lay this shitshow on "Americans". It is a long-running Ego trip with WTA allowing these two Elitists 'in need of a Camera' illicit Wildcards. If these two clowns want to "perform" -- then play the qualies.mandoist08-09-2026
- Here we go again…. Different rules for Americans! Especially THESE Americans. Yuck!DaveyWavey07-09-2026
- It almost feels like they’re on their own “Legacy Tour” by playing these events … but losing each one! No press = $$$ fineDaveyWavey07-09-2026
- Love to listen to Mirra. However, I'm worried about her eyesight if she thinks oversized lips is "pretty".mandoist06-09-2026
- One of the most amazing comebacks in a long, long time. It happens (and Keys shouldn't lose her crackers over this). If Madison starts playing Dress-up and walking out on court like some fantasy character with a Mental Problem... then she should really start worrying!mandoist06-09-2026
- STOP the "Look at Me" Tour now... and forever!!mandoist05-09-2026
- This article is SPOT ON!!!Rapunzel04-09-2026
- This article is SPOT ON!!!Rapunzel04-09-2026
- Is there no one in Pro Tennis willing to give this one some form of intervention before she crashes??mandoist04-09-2026
Loading
