Ben Shelton has triumphed over Frances Tiafoe, winning their thrilling three-set encounter in Houston to claim the title.
It saw the latter fail to defend his title, but his run in reaching that stage again was impressive and should stand him in good stead for the rest of the clay court season.
However, for Shelton, it marks just a second career title, made even more impressive given he had never even been to the quarterfinals of an ATP event on that surface.
He is on course for another astronomical year on court, yet off it, he remains as magnanimous as ever
Ben Shelton sends message to Frances Tiafoe
Speaking immediately after his win over Tiafoe, the young superstar, who overcame a late fightback from his 26-year-old compatriot, was nothing but complimentary.
Such a mature head on young shoulders, he spoke with poise and confidence, whilst showing immense grace in such an impressive victory.
After all, this is not the first time he has beaten Tiafoe, having brushed past the world number 20 back in 2023 when they met in the US Open quarter-finals.
Shelton would still laud the accomplishments of his fellow American and even apologised for his win before wishing him well for the rest of the season.
He noted: ‘Great week Foe. Great job to you and your team. I know this one stings, sorry you didn’t go back-to-back titles, but you’re that type of player who can go back-to-back. I want to see you do it again this year, hopefully in Stuttgart.’
Ben Shelton could hit huge landmark in 2024
Shelton has wasted no time in picking up where he left off in 2023, translating his superb form into the new season.
The thunderous left-handed prodigy, with a serve like a hammer, has caused issues to most he has played across the last 18 months or so.
This even culminated in his run to the US Open semi-finals, and has seen him win his first two ATP titles too, having yet to lose a final.
With nerves of steel and the play style to upset even the best in the business, 2024 promises to be a huge year for the second-ranked American player on the ATP tour.
His title win moves him up to 13th in the world rankings, and with few points to defend on clay, there is every chance he could continue to soar.
In fact, the 21-year-old will be quietly confident of potentially gatecrashing the top ten should his form continue.
This marks a promising start to this latest leg of the tour, and should give him full faith in securing more silverware and continuing to climb the ranking.
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