Shelton is Growing to Like Clay More and More: "I'm Just Enjoying This Experience in Europe"

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Adrien Guyot

le 26/04/2025 à 10h41

1 min to read

Madrid Navone Shelton

What if Ben Shelton became a credible outsider for titles on clay? The American, who fits the profile of a big server with a power-based game, recently reached the final of the ATP 500 tournament in Munich, defeating players like Cerundolo and Darderi before falling to world No. 2 Alexander Zverev in the final.

The world No. 13, on the brink of elimination in his opening match in Madrid, ultimately found a way to turn things around against Mariano Navone. After trailing 6-4, 5-3 against the Argentine, the American fought back to reach the Round of 16 (4-6, 7-6, 6-3), where he will face Jakub Mensik.

Following his dramatic comeback win against Navone, Shelton spoke to ATP media and reflected on his progress on clay.

"My progress on clay, I'd say it's happening step by step. Match by match, I try to feel more comfortable and learn something every day. I've already played a lot of pure clay-courters this season, great clay players.

When I play against them, whether I win or lose, I learn something from them. I'm just enjoying this experience in Europe. This is my third year on tour.

I feel like I'm doing things right this time. I'm not getting too frustrated over the small things. I know you don’t have to be perfect on clay, but you have to be solid," Shelton said.