Ben Shelton Moves Forward at French Open
Ben Shelton secured a thrilling victory over Lorenzo Sonego at the French Open, marking his second consecutive Grand Slam win against the Italian this year. The 13th-seeded American triumphed in a five-set battle, finishing 6-4, 4-6, 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 under the floodlights on Sunday, May 25. This impressive performance allowed Shelton to advance to the second round, a significant step in his tournament journey.
Shelton celebrated his win enthusiastically, waving his racket to the crowd. “I thought the crowd was great, it was my first time here on Court Philippe-Chatrier and it definitely won’t be one that I forget,” he shared shortly after midnight. He also admitted, “I didn’t expect to sleep until three or four in the morning.” Watching from the stands were his girlfriend, Trinity Rodman, a U.S. women’s soccer player and daughter of former NBA star Dennis Rodman, alongside his father and coach, Bryan Shelton.
Key Matches and Players at Roland-Garros
Earlier on Sunday, other notable players like Lorenzo Musetti and Aryna Sabalenka advanced comfortably without dropping a set. The eighth-seeded Musetti defeated qualifier Yannick Hanfmann 7-5, 6-2, 6-0, while the top-ranked Sabalenka dominated Kamilla Rakhimova 6-1, 6-0. Jasmine Paolini, last year’s runner-up at both Roland-Garros and Wimbledon, faced a tougher match but still emerged victorious over Yuan Yue with a 6-1, 4-6, 6-3 score.
Musetti has demonstrated impressive form recently, reaching at least the semifinals in the last three Masters tournaments in Rome, Madrid, and Monte Carlo. Despite not having advanced beyond the quarterfinals in other majors, he remains confident. “I feel ready to try to go for the trophy,” Musetti said, emphasizing that clay is the surface he feels most comfortable on. After his win, the crowd warmly applauded him on Court Philippe-Chatrier, showing appreciation not only for his skills but also for his past achievements, including Italy’s first Olympic tennis medal in 100 years.
Rafael Nadal’s Emotional Farewell
The day also included a heartfelt tribute to Rafael Nadal, who recently retired. Nadal, who claimed 14 of his 22 Grand Slam titles on the same court, received a special trophy during an emotional ceremony. His former rivals—Djokovic, Federer, and Murray—attended to honor his remarkable career, highlighting the deep respect he earned in the tennis community.
Other American Players Shine at French Open
American players Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe both progressed to the second round. Paul, seeded 12th, overcame Elmer Moller in four sets, while 15th-seeded Tiafoe defeated Roman Safiullin in straight sets. Earlier this month, Paul displayed strong form by reaching the semifinals of the Rome Masters without dropping a set.
Upcoming Matches and Title Defenses
Looking ahead, three-time defending champion Iga Swiatek will start her campaign for a fifth Roland-Garros title against Rebecca Sramkova of Slovakia. This match is scheduled for Monday noon on Court Philippe-Chatrier. Following Swiatek’s game, four-time major winner Naomi Osaka will face 10th-seeded Paula Badosa. Additionally, Jannik Sinner, a three-time major champion and last year’s semifinalist, will take on Arthur Rinderknech.
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