American tennis player Ben Shelton advanced to the fourth round of the US Open in the early hours of Saturday morning, defeating a resilient Denis Shapovalov 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (7/5), 6-3, 6-4 after a grueling, late-night battle. The Floridien, who was forced to retire due to an injury during the third round of last year’s tournament, is back in the round of 16 for the first time since 2023.
A Rocky Start and Roller-Coaster Opening Sets
The match began with chaotic momentum shifts. Denis Shapovalov claimed the initial break of the match, hammering heavy groundstrokes that kept Ben Shelton on the defensive. Yet the American immediately broke back in a frantic opening set characterized by baseline errors. Despite committing 21 unforced errors in the first frame alone, Shelton leaned heavily on his booming serve and winners to edge out the Canadian in the tie-break, 7-6 (7/3).
The turbulence spilled over into the second set, featuring four service breaks traded back and forth between two players refusing to yield an inch. Shapovalov seized control of the tie-break, locking down his court coverage and firing a stinging ace to clinch it 7-6 (7/5). The Canadian utilized his forehand to target the sidelines, restricting Shelton’s ability to find clean driving angles.
Midnight Surge and Decisive Power
Trailing by a set and with the clock well past midnight, Shelton elevated his level dramatically at the start of the third set. He broke Shapovalov immediately in the opening game, catching a second wind despite heavy legs. As the physical toll mounted, Shelton uncorked serves clocked at 227 km/h and 236 km/h in quick succession. The recent Montréal champion sealed the third set with a passing shot.
Carrying that momentum into the fourth, Shelton struck again in the opening game, breaking Shapovalov’s serve once more and protecting his lead until the final point. Speaking to reporters after the match, Shelton reflected on the psychological challenge of the tight second set. “Serving twice for the set and losing it was tough,” Shelton said. “I had to wipe the slate clean and refocus. I’m pleased with how I got myself back into it.”
Next Up: Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Round of 16
With the victory secured, Ben Shelton advances to face Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round on Sunday.
Fans and analysts tracking the tournament can follow live updates and official schedules directly through the official US Open website. Join the conversation and share your predictions for Sunday’s matchup in the comments below.
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