Alejandro Davidovich Fokina extended his unbeaten record against Ben Shelton by securing a spot in the Washington Open final. This latest victory highlights Davidovich Fokina’s continued success against the young American player amid the tournament held in the US capital.
In his journey through Washington, Davidovich Fokina has defeated three American opponents, including top-ranked Taylor Fritz, who is world number four. Despite Shelton’s reputation for a powerful serve, Davidovich Fokina has managed to neutralize this threat effectively, allowing him to maintain his winning streak against the rising star.
Insights from Davidovich Fokina on His Consistent Success Against Ben Shelton
Davidovich Fokina’s win over Shelton marks their third encounter, with two matches played this year alone. In the semifinal, he secured a 6-2, 7-5 victory, overcoming some contentious moments during the match. After the game, he shared details about his approach and how he leverages his strengths to counter Shelton’s game.
“Well, I will not say how strategically how I need to play against him, but I know that he’s a very big server, very big forehand,”
said Davidovich Fokina.
He emphasized a clear understanding of his own abilities, saying,
“At the end, I knew that I know my weakness, I know my power, and I know that I’m very good returner. Then it’s a tricky match, because at the end I can read a little bit how he serve. And at the end, I can do that he thinks more than maybe other players.”
The Spaniard explained how he handled Shelton’s serves, noting the mix of powerful serves and double faults. He adopted a strategy focusing on deep and long shots to open the points, while relying on his physical endurance throughout the match.
“In the other matches, the first match that we played in Paris was a little bit, we didn’t know each other, we didn’t know what was happening, but in Monte-Carlo was something the same at the end. Different conditions. Was so slow. And in rally, when we play in a rally, I know that I have more chances than him.”
Davidovich Fokina’s Track Record in ATP Finals Remains Challenging
While Davidovich Fokina has excelled against Shelton, his overall performance in ATP finals has yet to bring a title win. Ranked world number 26, he is among the highest-ranked players without an ATP trophy. The Washington Open final presents another chance for him to end this streak.
Previously, Davidovich Fokina has lost three ATP finals, including the recent Delray Beach Open where he held two match points but was unable to convert. At Washington, he faces Alex de Minaur, a competitor he has met four times before with an even split of two wins each.
Their most recent meeting occurred at the 2023 Canadian Open semifinals, where De Minaur triumphed in straight sets, adding intrigue to the upcoming final showdown in Washington.
Implications of Davidovich Fokina’s Continued Success and Upcoming Final
Davidovich Fokina’s ability to break Ben Shelton’s match losing streak demonstrates a strategic mastery over a challenging opponent known for his serving strength. As he prepares to face Alex de Minaur in the final, the Spaniard will seek to convert his ATP final appearances into a first career title, further enhancing his standing on the Tour.
The outcome of the Washington Open final will be closely watched, as it may mark a turning point in Davidovich Fokina’s career and influence his momentum going forward in the ATP season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Ben Shelton have cupping marks?
A. Grio explains that cupping is a therapy thought to relieve negative pressure in the body. This method is commonly seen in traditional Chinese medicine. Athletes use cupping to help with blood flow, reduce muscle stiffness and pain, and recover muscles between games.
Q. Is Ben Shelton sponsored by Rolex?
A. In 2024, Ben Shelton was chosen as a Rolex Testimonee.
Q. What is Ben Shelton’s brand?
A. Sponsorships. Starting in March 2023, Shelton receives clothing and shoes sponsorship from On and racquet sponsorship from Yonex.