Ben Shelton says what he thinks of the French Open fans after playing his first ever match on court Philippe Chatrier

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Ben Shelton has secured a spot in the second round of the French Open after a battling victory over Lorenzo Sonego.

Shelton is excited about American chances at the French Open, a tournament in which the 22-year-old is the 13th seed.

John McEnroe thinks he could help Shelton win a Grand Slam, with semi-final exits representing his best finish to date.

Shelton reached that stage of the 2023 US Open and 2025 Australian Open, but has only ever reached the third round of Roland Garros.

The ATP number 13 is now just one match away from that stage, having edged past Sonego 6-4, 4-6, 3-6, 6-2, 6-3.

Ben Shelton shares French Open fan verdict after first match on Philippe Chatrier

And speaking on court immediately after the three-hour, 31-minute battle, the American said: “Yeah, this was a tough one for sure.

“I played Lorenzo in the quarter-finals of Australian Open. I know he’s a big match player, a Grand Slam player, and you guys saw some of the hot shots tonight, some crazy tennis from him, and I love sharing the court with him.

READ MORE: Men’s French Open 2025 preview: how to watch, top players and prize money

“But for me, I thought the crowd was great. It was my first time being out here on Philippe Chatrier and it definitely won’t be one that I forget.

“So thanks everybody for coming out, thanks for the support. I know it’s late tonight, but I appreciate the energy. I love playing out here.”

Rafael Nadal gives Ben Shelton ‘goosebumps’ before French Open first round match

There was certainly plenty of pressure on Shelton, who took on Sonego after a farewell ceremony for Rafael Nadal.

The 14-time French Open champion was honoured on the clay court, where he was joined by the likes of fellow legends Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Andy Murray.

READ MORE: Aryna Sabalenka has one question she wants to ask Rafael Nadal after winning her first round match at the French Open

But Shelton dealt with the pressure on the iconic court Philippe Chatrier, having initially been left confused by the scheduling of his opening match.

“Yeah I thought it was a typo at first, you know a mix up, and that it was actually court seven,” added Shelton.

“But no, I was really excited. I couldn’t believe it. And you know, for me, the slams are my favourite four tournaments, and playing on the stadium courts at these tournaments is an honour, really special.

“Obviously having Rafa’s ceremony right before the match, it gives you goosebumps just being out here on this court.

“So to get a win in the fashion that I did in five sets, late at night was a dream come true. And really looking forward to the second round after this one.”