AI Generated Image
Ben Shelton's shot at history comes Sunday in the US Open final
ESPN • • general
Key Points:
- Ben Shelton advanced to his first Grand Slam final by defeating Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-5 in the US Open semifinals, marking a significant moment for American men's tennis after a 23-year major title drought.
- Shelton, 23, will face top-seeded Alexander Zverev in the final, aiming to become the first American man to win a major since Andy Roddick in 2003, and the first former college player to win a major since John McEnroe in 1984.
- Shelton's rise is notable given his unconventional path, including limited junior play and collegiate success at Florida, which helped him develop physically and mentally before turning professional.
- His semifinal win also made him the first Black American man to reach the US Open final since Arthur Ashe in 1972, a milestone celebrated by players like Serena Williams and Taylor Townsend for its significance in representation.
- Despite a 0-5 career record against Zverev, Shelton remains confident and focused, viewing the final as an opportunity to break new ground and end the long-standing American men's major title drought.
