Shelton Secures Masters 1000 Title, Youngest American Since Roddick

TORONTO: Ben Shelton, the fourth-seeded American player, overcame Russia’s Karen Khachanov with a score of 6-7(5), 6-4, 7-6(3) to clinch his inaugural ATP Masters 1000 title at the Canadian Open on Thursday.

The match, held at Centre Court, was a captivating display of intense tennis, keeping spectators engaged.

Previously in the competition, Khachanov had a successful streak, defeating Italian Flavio Cobolli (13th seed), Australian Alex de Minaur (9th seed), and American Taylor Fritz (2nd seed).

Khachanov gained an initial advantage in the first set, leading 5-3, but Shelton rallied, ultimately losing in a close tie-break.

A brief pause occurred at 2-2 in the second set due to technical difficulties. Following the resumption, Khachanov advanced to 4-3, but Shelton responded with a decisive break to lead 5-4.

The 22-year-old then saved four break opportunities to even the match, leading to a crucial tie-break in the final set.

This victory marks Shelton as the youngest American male to secure a Masters 1000 title since Andy Roddick’s Miami win in 2004.

Shelton commented on the match, noting the pressure from Khachanov’s forceful gameplay.

“Karen was really putting pressure on me all over the court. His forehand, the way he was moving, and his serves felt incredibly intense,” Shelton remarked.

“It was tough to push forward. The ball was coming at me with incredible speed.

“However, I managed to redirect, land some significant shots, and shift the match’s flow. That was a key moment for me.”