For the first time in 23 years, there will be an all-American Masters final.
American tennis pro Ben Shelton is on track to win the title at the Masters tournament in Montreal despite a serious fall into the barrier. The 23-year-old defeated his compatriot Learner Tien 6-2, 6-3 in the semifinals and will face another American, Brandon Nakashima, in the final. Nakashima had previously beaten Spain’s Rafael Jodar 7-6 (7-3), 6-4, setting up the first all-American Masters final in 23 years.
In 2003, Andy Roddick and Mardy Fish battled for the title in Cincinnati. “It means a lot to me that so many Americans are still in the running,” said Shelton. The world No. 10 took an unfortunate tumble into the boards in the second set and was bleeding from his left elbow and between his fingers afterward. After a brief medical timeout, however, he was able to continue. “I didn’t feel anything except the sting of the medication,” Shelton said. “I’m really happy with my performance.”
Last year, he won the tournament in Toronto and is therefore the defending champion, as the Canadian city alternates with Montreal in hosting the Masters event. Shelton has already won three titles this season, but he has great respect for Nakashima. “He can make you run all over the court,” said the left-hander: “I have to play smart tennis. The final will be a tough battle, and I’ll give it my all on the court.”