Ben Shelton (No 4) defeated Karen Khachanov (No 11) in three rounds of 6-7 (5/7), 6-4 and 7-6 (7/3) in the Omnium National Bank Omnium, Thursday evening, in Toronto.
For the 22 -year -old American, 7th in the world ranking, this is a first coronation this year on the circuit and the third in his career. However, this is his first title in a Masters 1000.
I do not yet realize what has just happened, said Shelton on the field after his victory. It’s a special moment, that’s for sure. I’m just happy to have been able to offer such a performance today.
I was able to fight and win this tournament. I am also happy for my team, with whom I work hard every day. It gives me a lot of confidence for the future
he added.
I played good tennis this week, but I know that I can still improve in order to reach my goal to win Grand Slam tournaments.
Karen khachanov
Photo : imagn images via reuters connect / Dan Hamilton
For his part, the 29 -year -old Russian was looking for an eighth title of ATP and a second in Masters 1000. The 16th world racket won his only title in this category in 2018, in Paris.
I just played six hours of tennis in two days. I’m a little tired
first declared Khachanov on the ground during the trophy ceremony.
I want to congratulate Ben for his victory, he is one of the most pleasant players on the circuit. He does things in the right way in the field and outside it.
Shelton, who had beaten Khachanv during their only meeting at Indian Wells last March, set the tone from the first game he won after having succeeded.
His creativity was essential throughout his career to the final, but he was short of 3-3 when a slightly cut right to the background was found in the net on a broken ball. The American returned to the service at 5-5 when his forehand touched the net and handcuffed Khachanv.
Ben Shelton
Photo : imagn images via reuters connect / Dan Hamilton
Khachanov then saved three round balls before winning the equality break from one volley after moving the American from one corner to another.
In the second round, Shelton scored the first break to lead 5-4 and saved four broken balls before forcing the holding of an ultimate round.
Shelton later dominated the Russian in equality breaks, in the third round, chaining as winning services before sealing his victory in 2 hours and 47 minutes.
He became the first American to win the Canadian tournament from Andy Roddick in 2003.
