Shelton wins first ATP title in Tokyo, up to No. 14 in the world

Ben Shelton’s meteoric rise continued with the primary ATP title of his younger profession, because the 21-year-old defeated Aslan Karatsev 7-5, 6-1 within the last of the Japan Open on Sunday night.

Shelton struck solely three aces, however he served at 80 % and likewise received 80 % of his first-serve factors. The American saved the one break level he confronted on the way in which to triumphing after one hour and 22 minutes.

“That meant a lot to me and my team,” Shelton stated. “We have been working really hard since the beginning to build my game and win titles on the ATP Tour. I made some deep runs lately. You see the great champions, they finish weeks off. They win titles; they don’t just get to finals. They are able to maintain their level throughout the week. I am not saying I am anywhere there yet, but to be able to do it for one week–put together five matches in a row in Tokyo–is really special.”

It was a considerably inconceivable title for Shelton–and never as a result of he was unseeded in Tokyo. In the semifinals, the University of Florida product trailed fellow former NCAA star Marcos Giron (UCLA) by a set and a double-break down at 5-2 within the second throughout their semifinal match. But Shelton broke again twice in a row and ended up beating Giron 6-7(2), 7-6(5), 6-4.

With 500 extra rating factors within the bag, Shelton climbs to No. 15 within the ATP rankings. He nonetheless has Vienna, the Paris Masters, and the NextGen ATP Finals on his remaining schedule in 2023.

“I am really looking forward to this tail-end stretch of the year,” the latest U.S. Open semifinalist stated. “I think it is a great opportunity for me. Earlier in the season I was losing early in weeks, so my match count is not that high–so I am feeling fresh. I am looking forward to finishing the season strong.”