Well done to @BenShelton! 👏 April 7, 2024: Wins second ATP title 🏆 (Houston ATP 250) August 1, 2021: Wins first pro title 🏆 (Champaign $25K Futures)
"You've been such an inspiration to kids, people of color in our sport": Ben Shelton shows class with Frances Tiafoe message
ATPMonday, 08 April 2024 at 19:30
Ben Shelton
left an emotional message to Frances Tiafoe after defeating him in the final of
the U.S. Men's Clay Court Championship by 7-5, 4-6, 6-3. Both were involved in a
spectacular duel between local tennis players, and Shelton ultimately secured
the second title of his career and first on clay.
Big-Foe
arrived as the defending champion in Houston but could not defend the title
against the 21-year-old who became the youngest champion of the tournament
since Andy Roddick achieved it in 2002 at the age of 19.
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Shelton,
who reached his career-best ranking as world No. 14 on Monday, praised his
opponent in a heartfelt message during the award ceremony and congratulated him
for being an "inspiration to kids" and wished him luck in his future
challenges. "Great week Foe. Great job to you and your team," Ben
Shelton started.
"I
know this one stings, sorry you didn't go back-to-back titles, but you're that
type of player who can go back to back. I want to see you do it again this
year, hopefully in Stuttgart," he added.
“You've
been such an inspiration to kids, people of color in our sport. Just an amazing
representation. You've been that guy to always put on for us and always be
selfless, thinking about others, kids younger than you so... thanks for
everything you do for our sport and people who look like you and me."
Ben Shelton at Houston Open final
Shelton's
victory was particularly special as he repeated the success of his father by
winning the title more than 20 years later. "My dad won this tournament in
1992, he had that one up on me and I had to get one back on him today. Thanks
for being a trailblazer showing me the way and I appreciate everyone out there
who's watching me."
On the
other hand, the 26-year-old Tiafoe expressed his disappointment over the loss
and joked about his compatriot: "It's been a really tough year and playing
a final has been really great,” he said. "It sucks we couldn't get it
done. Screw you Ben!"
"It
would have been cool to get number four. We'll get that soon enough. Let's
really build on this and let's have a good '24."
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