“This was a crazy match to be a part of”: Ben Shelton reflects on saving three match points against Fritz in Dallas

Ben Shelton captured the Dallas Open title on Sunday in a dramatic three-set final, saving three match points to defeat top-seeded Taylor Fritz 3-6, 6-3, 7-5. The No. 9-ranked American improved to 4-0 in ATP finals, claiming his fourth career title and second ATP 500 win. Shelton’s victory strengthens his top-10 standing, keeping more than 600 points ahead of Alexander Bublik. The match was the first meeting of the highest-ranked American men in the tournament’s Dallas iteration since 2022.

Shelton’s route to the title was marked by resilience. He lost the opening set in each of the last three rounds but rebounded each time. In the final, Fritz dominated early, winning 12 of his first 13 service points. Speaking during the press conference after the match, Shelton said: “Fritz was playing very good tennis and I was struggling a lot with what he was throwing at me. I tried to be a competitor through and through.”

During the on-court championship speech, Shelton reflected on the tournament’s atmosphere and his personal support system. “First and most importantly, I want to thank God," commented on his championship speech. "I feel blessed not only to have a great support system, the best team, and an amazing family, but also just the opportunity to travel the world, be healthy, play in front of you guys, and have experiences like this. There's nothing like it. I appreciate everybody for coming out. This is one of my favorite atmospheres I've ever played in.”

He also praised the tournament organisers and sponsors. “I want to thank the title sponsors (...). This tournament gets better and better every year," he said during the on-court speech. "Thanks to the umpires, the ball kids, the volunteers, and the people who do laundry for me every single night because I didn't have enough t-shirts here."

After losing the first set 3-6, Shelton rallied in the second, taking it 6-3 to force a decider. In the final set, he initially grabbed a 3-1 lead before Fritz tied the score. Down 4-5 and serving to stay in the final, Shelton saved three consecutive match points, levelling at 5-5 and breaking immediately after. He eventually closed the match on his third match-point opportunity.

“Once I get a set, I feel pretty confident,” he said during the press conference. “Once I’m able to sink my teeth in and feel like I have some sort of rhythm, I just start to loosen up and find my level.”

Shelton also acknowledged Fritz’s performance while underlining the importance of resilience and consistent competitiveness. During the trophy ceremony, he had words of tribute for his fellow American, with whom he has closely contested the position of highest-ranked American over the past year, both remaining consistent inside the top 10.

“This was a crazy match to be a part of. I thought your level was amazing,” Shelton commented about his rival. “What you've done this year dealing with adversity, fighting through injuries and nagging issues, the competitor that you are, and the work that your team does. You're an inspiration to all. I think every kid at home should watch how hard you compete day in and day out, even when you're not feeling 100%. I just want to congratulate you because you're doing amazing work.”

Finally, Shelton highlighted the role of family, fans, and team support. “And one more time for my team, thank you guys for believing in me,” the 23-year-old player added. “Thank you to those who flew in today or last night to make it over here for me, my sister, and my aunt. My aunt has flown more than any aunt has ever flown to see their nephew play tennis, just about every continent. I love all you guys. You are the best. And same to the fans. You guys are amazing. Thanks for everything this week. I'd love to hear Aurora one more time from you guys.”

The win consolidates Shelton’s top-10 status and demonstrates his capacity to perform under pressure. The American secures his fourth career title and second ATP 500 trophy, and will now take a week of rest before returning to competition, which is expected at the Acapulco Open starting on 23 February, a tournament where he will be the fourth seed and will join names such as Alexander Zverev, Lorenzo Musetti and Casper Ruud.