There’s a first time for everything. In an exciting turn of events, America’s rising star Ben Shelton is now closer to winning his first-ever ATP title. Shelton has reached the finals in the Japan Open and that is definitely a cause for celebration. It is the first time Shelton has been this close to victory. His opponent for the semi-finals, Marcos Giron, also played one of his best matches against the American. 

However, Shelton took the win and left everyone stunned. The 21-year-old has been trying since he made it to the ATP Tour to reach this stage in a tournament.

Ben Shelton on the verge of grabbing an important title

Shelton has become a household name ever since he started playing as a professional. He has been through ups and downs a lot in his young career. People often have a polarizing view about him. However, the fact is that Shelton is constantly getting better with every match. He won the match against Giron in three sets of 6-2, 7-6(7), 6-4. 

Shelton recognises how much of a stepping stone this win is for his career. He says: “It’s a huge achievement for me and my team. Especially the way the match came out today.” Shelton expressed his worries when Marcos made him change his strategy. According to him: “Marcos was waxing me from the baseline in almost every rally. I had to completely change my game up to even have a chance to compete against him.”

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It seems like Shelton is really proud of himself for making it into the finals, as he says: “To be able to get through that match, not only figure some things out, but get a win & be going into my 1st ATP Final… the win couldn’t be sweeter.”

Obviously, it wasn’t an easy win for the young champ. The match was neck-and-neck and quite engaging. He addresses the fact that he struggled a lot to score this win. In his words: “Definitely one of the toughest matches I’ve played in my life.” Shelton has struggled a lot in his journey till now. 

Will Shelton win the Japan Open?

It wouldn’t be right to name a winner just yet. Shelton will be up against the Russian powerhouse, Aslan Karatsev. Karatsev won against Japan’s Shintaro Mochizuki 6-3 6-4. It is safe to say that Karatsev is in his best form for this tournament. If Shelton is able to change his strategy again during the match, his chances of winning will weigh slightly above that of Karatsev.

Making predictions about who will win this match wouldn’t be effective. However, it is certain that the final for the Japan Open is going to be very engaging and thrilling. What are your thoughts on who will be the potential winner? Let us know in the comments.

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