Shelton beats Mensik, Tien sinks Merida to enter Montreal SFs
Montreal, Aug 12
Ben Shelton continues to thrive as defending champion as he eased into the Canadian Open semifinals without dropping a set after he overcame Jakub Mensik 6-3, 6-1.
The 23-year-old American made it four straight-sets wins in as many matches at this year's edition of the Canadian ATP Masters 1000.
Shelton powered 18 winners, three unforced errors and 89 percent first-serve points won. He didn't face a break point and even unleashed a 147 mph serve.
"It felt great," said Shelton. "I was very happy with my return game. The way that I played from the ground, from point one, for me, that's where I want to be at. I think the level I maintained throughout the match was really high. I'm super happy with my performance. Hope to continue to build on this in the semis."
The only Top-10 player remaining in the Montreal draw, Shelton will take on 12th-seeded American Learner Tien. Tien leads 2-0 in the pair's rivalry, having defeated Shelton earlier this year in the second round at Indian Wells.
Tien registered a 6-3, 6-2 victory against Daniel Merida. With his one-hour, 12-minute victory, the 20-year-old advanced to his first Masters 1000 semi-final.
He made his first Grand Slam quarterfinal at the Australian Open, first Masters quarterfinal in Indian Wells and landed his first clay-court title in Geneva.
"No matter how Ben is feeling, he is going to serve well," Tien said about playing Shelton. "He is going to hit a big ball off the baseline. He is playing with a lot of confidence right now. I saw him play earlier today. He is playing very, very well."
— IANS
Reader Comments
Young American players are taking over the tour! Tien at 20 reaching his first Masters semi is super impressive. The future of tennis is in safe hands. 🇮🇳 fans love a good underdog story!
Shelton is playing lights out — only 3 unforced errors and 89% first-serve points is just insane. But let me play devil's advocate here: him not dropping a set all week could be a double-edged sword. He might not be battle-tested for a tough semi vs Tien, who already beat him twice. Should be interesting!
The Montreal crowd is getting a treat! These two young Americans are the real deal. Makes me wonder though — when will we see Indian players at this level in Masters events? We have the passion but need more grassroots support. Just saying. 🤷♀️
As a neutral fan, I'm loving this new generation. Shelton's power game vs Tien's tactical smarts — that's a classic matchup. Also, 2-0 head-to-head for Tien shows he knows something about Shelton's game. Can't wait for this one!
Even though we don't have Indian players in the mix, it's still thrilling to watch. Shelton's confidence is infectious and Tien's humility is refreshing. These boys are bringing the heat! 🔥 All the best to both of them for the semi.
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