Ben Shelton defeated fellow American Frances Tiafoe 7-6(2), 6-4 in the DC Open quarterfinals, reaching the semifinals of a tournament for the 5th time this season. The world No. 8 continues to rack up wins and emerged victorious this Saturday, maintaining a streak of not conceding a set so far in the tournament.
It was a match that could have gone either way, as demonstrated in the first set. Both players started with strong service games, but the first opportunities came in the 4th game, with Tiafoe having to save two break points against him to stay in contention.
The world No. 11 went from 4-5 down to winning the next 9 points consecutively, securing the break that put him ahead 6-5. The 27-year-old had the chance to take the set on his serve but ended up squandering the advantage, and Shelton sent everything to a tie-break. After a seemingly even start, Shelton rattled off 6 consecutive points – 2 of them mini-breaks – and ultimately took a set that seemed practically lost minutes earlier, by 7-6(2).
Into the second set, things again started evenly, though with a more confident Shelton on his service games. The 22-year-old had an incredible 100% of points won on his first serve against his opponent's 81%, while also being superior on second serves, winning 73% of them against only 40% for Tiafoe.
After the set began with both defending their serves without too many problems, Tiafoe faced up to three break points in the 5th game but ultimately held serve. However, it was just a warning for what would come minutes later in the stadium.
Indeed, with the score at 3-3, probably the most contested game of the match was played, where both knew they were at a crucial moment. A hesitant start from Tiafoe ended up giving his opponent four break points, who this time seized the opportunity and then pulled ahead with his serve.
Shelton held his serve until the close – he conceded only three service points in the entire set – and ultimately sealed an important victory by 7-6(2), 6-4. Shelton is currently the only American left in contention, after Taylor Fritz and Brandon Nakashima were also eliminated in the quarterfinals.
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De Minaur Reaches 19th Career Final While Shelton Awaits Semifinal Foe
While Shelton still awaits his semifinal opponent, the first finalist has already been determined, after Alex de Minaur defeated French talent Corentin Moutet in straight sets to reach the 19th final of his career. The Australian prevailed against the Frenchman in Washington this afternoon, converting 5/7 break points, while Moutet could only convert 2/5.
Shelton prepares for Davidovich Fokina
The world No. 9 has had a relatively uncomplicated tournament, entering as the 4th seed. After receiving a first-round bye, he debuted against McKenzie McDonald, taking a straightforward win (6-3, 6-4), while a day later he overcame Canadian Gabriel Diallo (6-3, 6-2), guaranteeing his match against Tiafoe.
The next challenge for Shelton will be against the always-complicated Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, who is having a great tournament in DC. The Spaniard is coming off a victory over top seed Taylor Fritz in three sets and will seek to play another ATP-level final against Shelton.
Davidovich Fokina is the only player within the top 40 who has yet to win a title in his career, and now he is just two matches away from achieving it. Of course, the first challenge will be more than complicated against Shelton, although Davidovich will arrive with full confidence after eliminating world No. 4 Fritz.
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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