Ben Shelton secured the fifth title of his career and second on clay after beating Flavio Cobolli in the Munich Open final.
After coming up short in the championship match at last year’s edition of the ATP 500 event against Alexander Zverev, Shelton finally got his hands on the trophy in Munich.
The American beat Cobolli in straight sets, 6-2, 7-5, to become just the fourth player to win multiple titles in 2026 following his triumph in Dallas, joining Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner and Daniil Medvedev.
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Shelton is now the first man from his country to win a clay-court title since Andre Agassi in Rome during the 2002 season.
During his speech at the award ceremony, the 23-year-old had some kind words for Cobolli.
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Shelton said: “I wanna congratulate Flavio. I know this was an emotional week for you. Some of the tennis you were coming up with was outstanding.
“Your match yesterday was a privilege to watch. I’m sorry for saying that, guys. The work you and your team do, always smiling, playing football.
“You’re a big personality. A big reason our game is growing. To see you guys out here always makes me smile.
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“To your whole team, your family, your father who’s not here, you guys are the best. Keep it going. Top 10 soon.
“Just happy to see the progress both of us have made throughout the last few years.”
Flavio Cobolli’s message to Ben Shelton after losing the final
In his runner-up speech, Cobolli joked: “Incredible week Ben. Me and Ben started the week together cheering for Bayern Munich in Champions League. Then we played the final here. Today he was better than me in tennis but for sure in football it’s never happened.
“I wanna say congrats for what you’re doing with your team. Incredible journey. You deserve it. I always cheer for you.
“You’re an incredible friend on the tour. I wish you good luck for the rest of the season. I hope to see you soon on the court.”
Shelton will remain sixth in the world with his victory, while Cobolli will move from 16th to 13th.
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