Ben Shelton dug deep to claim a huge victory at Indian Wells last night, and will now face Jannik Sinner for his troubles.
The Italian is seemingly unstoppable at the moment, but he is set to meet an in-form Shelton who has impressed in 2024 despite not quite reaching a tournament final yet.
He will be hoping to do so in his home country though, throwing up some magic in the California desert to brush aside his 22-year-old opponent.
But how will the world number 16 come through against such an in-form player? Does he have any new tricks up his sleeve? We take a closer look at his comments previewing the match…
What Ben Shelton said about Jannik Sinner
Speaking to the Indian Wells Press, the USA tennis player detailed his excitement at the prospect of facing the world number three, who is in the form of his life at the moment.
Having won the Australian Open back in January, and yet to be defeated in any competition since the turn of the year, it marks the toughest possible clash for Shelton to be faced with.
But he showed no fear in previewing the showdown, likely buoyed by Andy Roddick’s support, noting: ‘I think it’s one of those matches where you know it’s gonna be a physical war.
‘You know how physical he is, the way he plays. How aggressive he is. It’s just one of those matches that you know you’re gonna have to play aggressive, take your chances, & be confident out on the court.
‘I have 2 matches under my belt against him. Both on hard courts last year. I’m really looking forward to it. The way he’s been playing lately. I’m sure it’s gonna be an amazing crowd out here. Those are the type of matches I live for.’
A huge Indian Wells clash awaits
Indian Wells has already thrown up some incredible matches for us to enjoy so far, but few have as much blockbuster potential as this Shelton-Sinner showdown.
Given the two actually boast a 1-1 record too, and that the American was the last person to even beat Sinner other than Novak Djokovic, it actually feels like this could be a real contest, and not just the usual easy win that the Italian has become accustomed to this year.
On his way to this Round of 32, Shelton has already had to dig deep, and in coming from behind against the youngster Jakub Mensik in the first round his credentials have been more than outlined.
Meanwhile, Sinner’s road to this stage has been one of immense ease, with two straight-sets successes earning him his place.
The two could not have had more polarising runs, and their styles seem aligned for a showstopping match-up.
I, for one, cannot wait to watch.
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