Shelton Captures National Bank Open Crown

Young American Aces Biggest Title Yet

In a commanding performance, Ben Shelton secured his third and most significant career title by winning the National Bank Open. The young American talent rallied to defeat Karen Khachanov in a thrilling three-set final.

Historic American Victory

The 22-year-old, who was the fourth seed, etched his name in the tournament’s history. Shelton is now the first American to claim the prestigious Masters 1000 hard-court event since Andy Roddick triumphed in 2003. This victory follows his previous hard-court win in Tokyo in 2023 and a clay-court title in Houston last year.

Shelton‘s win makes him the youngest American to win any Masters 1000 event since Andy Roddick at Miami in 2004, when he was 21. This achievement underscores his rapid ascent in the professional tennis ranks.

“It’s a surreal feeling. It’s been a long week, not an easy path to the final. My best tennis came out when it mattered most. I was clutch, I persevered, I was resilient. All the qualities I like to see in myself.”

—Ben Shelton

Career-High Ranking Achieved

Following his impressive performance, Shelton is set to climb one spot to a career-high world ranking of sixth. His path to the title included a hard-fought semifinal victory against fellow American Taylor Fritz, the second seed, whom he defeated 6-4, 6-3.

“I feel like it was a perfect storm for me this week,” Shelton reflected. “A lot of tight matches and long matches. I played some of the best tennis that I’ve played this year.”

In the final set, Shelton delivered seven of his 16 aces, showcasing his powerful serve. He sealed his victory by winning 14 consecutive points on his serve, including holding at love to force the deciding tiebreaker.

“He went for his shots, trusted the work that he’s put in and he executed. Sometimes you do and sometimes you don’t. But it’s always nice when you can leave a tournament and hold a trophy up in your hands because it’s rare.”

—Bryan Shelton, Father and Coach

Khachanov’s Strong Run Ends in Final

The 29-year-old Karen Khachanov, a seven-time career champion, displayed resilience throughout the tournament. He reached the final after surviving a match point in a third-set tiebreaker against top-seeded Alexander Zverev in the semifinals.

“It’s a positive, a great tournament, a great run. I had some great battles and great wins against top guys.”

—Karen Khachanov

Notable Absences and Doubles Action

The event