After Arthur Fils copied Ben Shelton’s camera message at the European Open in Antwerp the day before, Shelton spectacularly won the 2023 Japan Open. Shelton became a professional last year and advanced to the US Open final four this year, his home Slam, and the Australian Open quarterfinals.
On Sunday, he won his first ATP singles title in Tokyo, which turned out to be the turning point of his career. In the final, Shelton took an hour and twenty minutes to defeat Aslan Karatsev of Russia, 7-5, 6-1.
The moment Shelton addressed the camera following his victory to address Fils who had imitated the American’s ‘Humble and Hungry’ remark the day before captured the attention of the whole audience. After defeating Stefanos Tsitsipas to get to the European Open final, Fils had done just that.
Shelton wrote on camera: “Show me something, Arthur.”
Shelton stated his remarks in the post-match interview and said: “I am really looking forward to this tail-end stretch of the year. I think it is a great opportunity for me. Earlier in the season I was losing early in weeks, so my match count is not that high, so I am feeling fresh. I am looking forward to finishing the season strong.”
Ben Shelton in 2023
Currently the world no.19 (career-high), Ben played his last match on the 22nd of October when he overcame world no.50 Aslan Karatsev 7-5 6-1 in the final in Tokyo to win his 0th challenger.
Presently, during this year Ben has achieved a composed 28-24 record. This year, Shelton won 1 tournament in Tokyo.
He is also scheduled to play in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters) after Vienna. The main draw will start on the 23rd of October.