NEW YORK - Ben Shelton believes his newly acquired problem-solving skills can propel him to a maiden Grand Slam title when he faces Alexander Zverev in the final of the US Open on Sunday. The 23-year-old American, known for his powerful serve, reached his first major championship final after defeating close friend Frances Tiafoe in a thrilling all-American semi-final.
Shelton, seeded eighth, showcased his formidable form with a 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-5 victory over Tiafoe in front of a fervent home crowd at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. This win marks another significant milestone in Shelton's journey through this year's tournament, which included a stunning five-set victory over defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals.
The big-serving Shelton, who blasted 20 aces in Friday's semi-final, attributes his success at Flushing Meadows to his ability to combine mental acuity with physical prowess. "I think that problem-solving has been the name of the game here," Shelton said. "It's been a lot of uphill battles, so I think that I'm fully ready for the challenge to problem-solve."
"I feel that I'm a different player. I feel like I have so many more tools. I feel like I know my identity, am comfortable in my own skin, and I know what it takes for me to be playing top-level tennis," Shelton continued. "I'm looking forward to the challenge, being able to problem-solve on Sunday. I know what I'm up against, and I'm also the most confident I've ever been in my game."
Shelton is now one win away from becoming the first American man to win a Grand Slam title in 23 years. The last American to lift a major was Andy Roddick at the 2003 US Open. Despite the historical significance, Shelton remains unfazed. "I think that I handle these big situations in my career pretty well," he said. "I feel that confidence and belief take over. The nerves are always there. It's something that you got to kind of lean into. The nerves are as much there in the first round for me as in the semi-finals, and I'm sure that the finals will be the same."
