Ben Shelton wins National Bank Open, claiming his biggest career title by defeating Karen Khachanov in thrilling final.
Ben Shelton captured the National Bank Open title in Toronto by rallying past 11th-seeded Karen Khachanov in a gripping three-set final, 6-7 (5), 6-4, 7-6 (3), marking the most significant win of his career to date. The 22-year-old American, seeded fourth, made history as the first U.S. player to win this Masters 1000 hard-court tournament since Andy Roddick in 2003, highlighting his rise in men’s tennis.
Shelton’s Journey and Career Milestones Leading Up to the Win
Before this victory, Shelton had already claimed titles on different surfaces, including hard courts in Tokyo last year and clay courts in Houston. His performance in Toronto boosted him to a career-high world ranking of sixth, reflecting steady progress throughout the season. He secured his spot in the final by defeating second-seeded Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-3 in an all-American semifinal.
Player Reflections on a Challenging and Rewarding Week
Describing the week as surreal, Shelton emphasized the importance of resilience and timing.
“It’s been a long week, not an easy path to the final. My best tennis came out when it mattered most. I was clutch, I persevered, I was resilient. All the qualities I like to see in myself.”
—Ben Shelton
He also credited the close matches for sharpening his game.
“I feel like it was a perfect storm for me this week. A lot of tight matches and long matches. I played some of the best tennis that I’ve played this year.”
—Ben Shelton
Final Set Dominance and Support from Family
Shelton delivered impressive serving in the last set, hitting seven of his sixteen aces and winning 14 consecutive points on his serve to force the concluding tiebreaker. His father and coach, Bryan Shelton, praised his son’s aggressive play and mental toughness.
Image of: Ben Shelton
“He went for his shots, trusted the work that he’s put in and he executed. Sometimes you do and sometimes you don’t. But it’s always nice when you can leave a tournament and hold a trophy up in your hands because it’s rare.”
—Bryan Shelton
Karen Khachanov Reflects on a Strong Tournament Showing
Though Khachanov, 29, holds seven career hard-court victories and came through a tough semifinal against top seed Alexander Zverev, falling just short in the final, he viewed this tournament positively.
“It’s a positive, a great tournament, a great run. I had some great battles and great wins against top guys.”
—Karen Khachanov
Notable Absences and Doubles Final Highlights
This year’s National Bank Open saw top players Jannik Sinner, last year’s Toronto champion, and No. 2 seed Carlos Alcaraz skip the event to prepare for the U.S. Open. In doubles, Julian Cash and Lloyd Glasspool secured the all-English final with a 6-3, 6-7 (5), 13-11 win over Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski, saving four match points to continue their 19-match winning streak as Wimbledon finalists.
Significance of Shelton’s Win and Next Steps
Shelton’s breakthrough at the National Bank Open signals a growing presence in the upper echelons of men’s tennis, combining talent and mental strength to excel under pressure. With his ranking boosted and confidence high, he is positioned as a rising contender heading into upcoming major tournaments such as the U.S. Open, where his form will be closely watched by fans and competitors alike.
