Ben Shelton defeated Peruvian qualifier Ignacio Buse 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 in the US Open’s first round on Sunday, marking a strong start in his quest to end the 22-year title drought for American men in New York.
After reaching the US Open semifinals in 2023 and winning his career’s biggest title in Toronto earlier this month, Shelton displayed his confidence at Arthur Ashe Stadium, hitting over 35 winners and five aces.
Shelton will face the winner between Spaniards Pablo Carreno Busta and qualifier Pablo Llamas Ruiz, benefiting from an extra day’s rest due to the extended 15-day schedule adopted by the major this year.
“This place feels like home to me. It’s the best court in tennis,” Shelton expressed. “It’s my favorite place to play, favorite court, favorite tournament.”
The players were neck and neck through most of the first set until Buse double-faulted in the eighth game, losing his serve, and Shelton defended three break points in the ninth.
In the second set, Shelton broke Buse’s serve from the baseline in the fifth game and again in the seventh with one of his powerful forehand winners.
In the final set, Buse’s sixth double fault in the match aided Shelton in breaking his serve in the third game. Shelton, 22, sealed the victory on his fifth match point, nodding in satisfaction.
Born less than a year before Andy Roddick’s 2003 win, Shelton is now a leading hope for American fans, following his inspiring semifinal run two years ago.
“We take it one step at a time, aiming to improve daily,” Shelton remarked. “Looking too far ahead can trip you up.”
