In his brief professional career, Ben Shelton hasn’t played his best on clay courts. Shelton, however, silenced his doubters at the Houston Open 2024 with an amazing performance. He won the U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship by defeating previous champion and fellow countryman Frances Tiafoe 7-5, 4-6, 6-3 in the final match.
The 21-year-old chose to struggle through the Texas heat as a way to celebrate winning his first-ever title on the clay. Comparable to Formula One racer Daniel Ricciardo, Shelton dove into the Houston pool.
As the clay court season approaches, Shelton’s victory in the Houston Open 2024 will undoubtedly improve his spirits. The young player will have incredible momentum and be a contender at the French Open in 2024 if he maintains this level of performance till the Roland Garros.
Ben Shelton in 2024
Ranked world no.14 (career-high), Ben played his last match on the 7th of April when he overcame world no.23 Francis Tiafoe 7-5 4-6 6-3
in the final in Houston to win his 2nd career title.This season Shelton has a 15-7 win-loss record. This year, Ben clinched 1 title in Houston.
Shelton will compete next in Madrid (Mutua Madrid Open). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 22nd of April.