Ben Shelton was very impressed by something Karen Khachanov did during their Indian Wells match.
The 22-year-old took on the Russian in the third round of the first ATP Masters 1000 event of the season.
In what was their first meeting on tour, both players gave it their all with a spot in the last 16 on the line.
But with the home crowd on his side, Ben Shelton took the spoils with a 6-3, 7-5 victory, but not without overcoming some pressure from his opponent.
Ben Shelton comments on Karen Khachanov‘s second serve during their Indian Wells match
Shelton possesses one of the most powerful and devastating serves on the ATP Tour.
He has produced serves in the region of 150mph at Indian Wells and it is certainly the biggest weapon in the American’s artillery.
But Shelton’s opponent Karen Khachanov has a strong serve of his own and at one moment during their match, the 28-year-old hit a lethal second serve, that Shelton flying to his right in order to retrieve it.
Shelton did so and won the point, but he proceeded to give a quick breakdown how impressive Khachanov’s second serve was.
In footage captured from the crowd, Shelton was heard saying: “Unbelievable. That’s the best second serve I’ve ever seen in my life,” he said. “Outside the line, tails six feet to the right.”
Ben Shelton aiming for first title of 2025 at Indian Wells
Shelton has secured two impressive wins at Indian Wells, first against Marino Navone before defeating Kachanov.
The World number 12 trailed 5-3 in the second set, but went on to win the final four games of the match to secure an important victory.
“I put a lot of trust in the work I put in with my team to make the right plays in big moments,” Shelton told the crowd after his win. “I’m just happy to be out here. This crowd, your energy is insane, I love it.”
He will face fellow American Brandon Nakashima in the next round, who overcame Matteo Arnaldi in the previous round.
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