Shelton reaches his first Masters 1000 final: “This could be a turning point for me”

Ben Shelton continues to build his young legend. In the early hours of Thursday in Toronto, the 22-year-old American defeated compatriot Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-3 to reach the first Masters 1000 final of his career. He also became the youngest American to do so since Andy Roddick in 2004 – also in Toronto.

Shelton displayed impressive control in every area of the game. He needed just 1 hour and 18 minutes to secure the win, relying on his powerful serve (7 aces, 203 km/h average first serve speed), unwavering focus, and aggressive returning, converting 3 of 10 break chances. He was never in danger, saving the only two break points he faced.

Fritz double-faulted on match point, allowing Shelton – now No.7 in the world – to seal the win with a primal roar. Another victory on Sunday would mark yet another step in the meteoric rise of a player who is projected to crack the top 5 in the Race.

Keeping him on the move was the game plan

In his post-match press conference, Shelton explained his strategy: “For me, it was about keeping him on the move, disrupting his rhythm. Mixing things up without overreaching, staying solid. He hits big and makes very few mistakes. When he’s in control, he’s tough to beat. But tonight, I executed really well.”

This win snapped a two-match losing streak against Fritz on the main tour. More importantly, it marked a breakthrough at the Masters 1000 level – a long-standing goal for the Atlanta native: “Masters 1000s were the one level I still struggled with. This week is a first step. This is my first real deep run, and it gives me confidence.”

Shelton’s consistency stands out

Already the author of solid performances against Alex de Minaur in the previous round, Shelton is starting to show a knack for rising to the occasion : “Tonight everything worked, so it was easier. But it’s the matches where nothing clicks that matter the most. Finding solutions in those moments – that’s what I remember.”

Against Fritz, he also proved himself in the rallies. He won 10 of the 14 exchanges that lasted more than nine shots – a sign of real improvement. “Playing back-to-back matches against guys like De Minaur and Fritz, and winning the long points, is a big confidence booster. Yesterday I played slower, with more variation. Tonight I was able to attack more. I’m happy I can adjust depending on the opponent.”

Khachanov showdown and a shot at history

Next up, Shelton will face Karen Khachanov for the title. They have met once before on tour – a straight-sets win for Shelton earlier this year at Indian Wells (6-3, 7-5). “Karen is really solid from the baseline, serves well, and competes hard. I’m excited to play this final – it’s going to be a great battle.”

Should Shelton win, he would follow in the footsteps of recent surprise Toronto champions who lifted their first Masters 1000 trophy at this event: Pablo Carreño Busta (2022), Jannik Sinner (2023), and Alexei Popyrin (2024). His name could be next on that list.

All eyes on Cincinnati and the US Open

After a strong week in Los Cabos, Shelton has confirmed himself as one of the hottest players of the summer. This final comes at the perfect time, just ahead of Cincinnati and especially the US Open, where he reached the semi-finals two years ago.

“This tournament could be a real turning point for me. I feel great, I’m playing my best tennis, and I’m excited to see how far I can go.”

Toronto Masters 1000, other semi-final result (Aviva Centre, hard, USD 9.193.540):

• Karen Khachanov beat Alexander Zverev (1): 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (4)