"This is my favorite European city": Shelton jokes after starting first visit to Europe with Lestienne win

Budding American tennis star Ben Shelton will be making his European clay-court debut at the 2023 Estoril Open, and the 20-year old seems excited to finally leave his homeland soil.

The Atlanta native recently decided to become a full-time player on the ATP Tour, after competing part-time due to his commitments at the University of Florida. However, following his success over the last 8 months, including a quarterfinal run at the 2023 Australian Open, the youngster is ready to take on the challenges of a full schedule on tour.

Shelton will be competing on the red clay courts of Europe for the first time in his professional career, and is seeded at the Estoril Open. The American traveled to Portugal, and with it being his first trip to Europe, seemed impressed upon visiting the city of Cascais, which is playing host to the ATP 250 event.

"This is my favorite European city," said an overwhelmed Shelton when asked if he was enjoying his stay.

The eighth seed defeated Frenchman Constant Lestienne in the opening round, notching his first ATP main draw victory on red clay.

“I’m really happy to be here in Portugal,” said Shelton in his on-court interview. “I want to thank the whole crowd for their support today. I was hearing the chants. I’m really enjoying my time here, so hopefully I can keep it going.”