Ben Shelton shared some lovely words about Stan Wawrinka after their match at the Basel Open.
The 21-year-old took on one of the ATP Tour’s longest-serving players, who at his best still produces some of the game’s most feared groundstrokes.
At 39 years of age, Wawrinka is still competitive in matches and he gave the American a stern test in front of his home fans on Thursday.
Shelton went on to book a spot in his 13th tour-level quarter-final, but he was made to work hard for it by the three-time Grand Slam champion.
What did Ben Shelton say about Stan Wawrinka after their Basel Open match?
In a tight match, Ben Shelton struck 20 winners on the way to registering a 7-6(2), 7-5 over Stan Wawrinka.
The Swiss player had his chances against the World number 23, but he saved all five break points he faced and capitalised on his opportunity to break Wawrinka’s serve in the second set.
After the match, Shelton disclosed a conversation he had with Wawrinka before they went out to compete, before sharing some kind words about the veteran.
“We were joking in the locker room before the match that he [Wawrinka] has been on the Tour as long as I have lived,” Shelton said.
“He’s got a lot of experience and a lot of love around the world. He’s done incredible things for our sport. Especially here in Switzerland. You can tell with the fan support today… I had to smile at times today because obviously it’s against me.
“But it’s so cool to see a country and tournament get behind a guy like that who’s been such an icon. Shout out to Stan. I don’t think I’m still gonna be out here winning matches at 39.”
Who does Ben Shelton play next?
Shelton has recorded two solid wins at the Basel Open, first against Argentina’s Tomás Martín Etcheverry and then taking out Wawrinka.
He will now go up against the tournament’s top seed Andrey Rublev for a spot in the semi-finals.
The Russian defeated Bastad Open winner Nuno Borges in his opening match, before overcoming Alejandro Tabilo on Wednesday.
Friday’s contest will mark the first time the pair play against each other and it is set to be an exciting clash.
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