Ben Shelton withdraws from Tokyo tournament due to physical fatigue

Physical Toll From the US Open and Davis Cup

Shelton’s withdrawal follows a physically demanding autumn slate that included a deep run at the US Open followed immediately by international duty. Playing for the United States in the Davis Cup group stage in Prague, Shelton dropped both of his singles matches against Mensik and Lehecka as the Czech Republic secured its spot for the Final 8 in Bologna. Those matches came on the heels of a high-intensity tournament schedule that featured a grueling encounter against Alexander Zverev.

Only Alexander Zverev, Jannik Sinner, and compatriot Frances Tiafoe have collected more match wins this year. Despite the recent physical setbacks, Shelton’s strong campaign has elevated him to a career-high ranking of No. 4 in the world.

Alcaraz Path Cleared and Updated Tokyo Seeding

With Shelton's exit, the tournament outlook in the Japanese capital shifts significantly. Shelton had been seeded second in Tokyo and was projected as a principal threat to top contenders following his quarterfinal victory over Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open. Instead, compatriot Frances Tiafoe steps into the No. 2 seed position for the tournament.

The Tokyo field still boasts multiple top-20 players ready to battle for the trophy. Taylor Fritz, Casper Ruud, Tommy Paul, Brandon Nakashima, and Arthur Fils—who must play through the qualifying rounds after missing the main draw deadline—headline the remaining entry list. Shelton, meanwhile, is turning his recovery focus toward the upcoming Masters 1000 de Shanghái.

Tournament officials expect to release the revised singles main draw ahead of the opening rounds in Tokyo. Fans can follow official updates and order of play via the ATP Tour official website as the players prepare for the indoor and outdoor hard-court swing in Asia.