American tennis star Ben Shelton clinched the title at the ATP 250 tournament in Houston on Sunday as he beat compatriot Frances Tiafoe in the final. The 21-year-old scripted history with his win as Shelton became the youngest champion at the tournament since 19-year-old Andy Roddick in 2002.
He was jubilant after the win considering the fact that the American came into the tournament with a 2-7 tour-level record on clay and a five-match losing streak on the surface. However, Shelton did not let any of this affect his game as the 21-year-old beat defending champion Tiafoe 7-5, 4-6, 6-3 in the final.
After the win, Shelton talked about Tiafoe’s performance and congratulated his friend for a great outing. He also apologized to Tiafoe for taking away the opportunity to win back-to-back titles. Shelton hoped for Tiafoe to win a title in Stuttgart where he will be starting as the defending champion.
Great week Foe. Great job to you and your team. I know this one stings, sorry you didn't go back-to-back titles, but you're that type of player who can go back to back. I want to see you do it again this year, hopefully in Stuttgart. Ben Shelton said during the trophy ceremony.
The 21-year-old also talked about Tiafoe’s contribution to inspiring kids in the country to take up the sport. Shelton hailed Tiafoe’s selflessness and thanked him for putting others’ interests before his.
You've been such an inspiration to kids, people of color in our sport, just an amazing representation. You've been that guy to always put on for us and always be selfless, thinking about others, kids younger than you. So thanks for everything that you do for our sport and people who look like you and me. Ben Shelton added
Frances Tiafoe says “Screw You” to Ben Shelton
While Ben Shelton was emotional during his speech, Frances Tiafoe chose to be funny and jovial. In response to all the praise Shelton sang for him, Tiafoe said, “Screw you”. The 25-year-old revisited his season and patted his back for making it to the final in Houston.
However, Tiafoe rued not being able to win the title for a second time in a row. It was then the older of the two took a dig at his compatriot. But after that, Tiafoe talked about building the rest of the season on this performance.
It's been a really tough year and playing a final has been really great. It sucks we couldn't get it done. Screw you Ben! It would have been cool to get number four. We'll get that soon enough. Let's really build on this and let's have a good '24. Frances Tiafoe said
Notably, this was the second meeting between the two players on the tour. Shelton and Tiafoe last locked horns at the US Open when the former had defeated the latter in four sets in the quarterfinal.
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