Fritz Advances at US Open, Shelton Secures Victory

NEW YORK: Taylor Fritz commenced his US Open journey with a convincing 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 triumph over fellow American Emilio Nava at Louis Armstrong Stadium this Sunday. Nava, a wildcard entrant, put up a strong fight in the initial set before conceding his serve in the final game due to a couple of errors.

Following the first set, Fritz seized control of the match, breaking his opponent’s serve from the baseline to secure the second set. He replicated this performance in the subsequent third set.

Fritz, who previously finished as runner-up to Jannik Sinner and became the first American to reach the US Open final since 2006, aims to emulate Madison Keys or Coco Gauff, both of whom have clinched Grand Slam titles this season.

Notably, American women have collectively secured 25 Grand Slam titles. However, no male tennis player has claimed a title since Andy Roddick’s US Open victory in 2003.

Taylor Fritz acknowledged the need for male American tennis players to elevate their game and provide fans with more to celebrate. He stated, “American tennis is in a promising position.”

Fritz added, “The women have been leading the way for a considerable time, but the men are progressing. I gradually found my rhythm in the match. My returns became more effective, and I felt more relaxed.”

In the next round, Fritz is slated to compete against either Argentine Sebastian Baez or South African Lloyd Harris. Concurrently, Ben Shelton delighted the home crowd with a dominant performance, defeating Peruvian qualifier Ignacio Buse 6-3, 6-2, 6-4.

Shelton’s next opponent will be the victor of the all-Spanish match between Pablo Carreno Busta and qualifier Pablo Llamas Ruiz.