Shelton Eases Past Tiafoe For Houston Title, First On Clay

The first all-Black men’s American final in the Open Era on the ATP Tour went to Ben Shelton Sunday on the clay in Houston. The 21-year-old Shelton powered past Frances Tiafoe 7-5, 4-6, 6-3.

Shelton, who will rise to a new career-high No. 14 Monday, won three three setters during the week, two from a set behind. But today, the youngster behind 11 aces grabbed the opener and another break in the third to become the youngest champion at the tournament since 19-year-old Andy Roddick in 2002.

“Great week Foe. Great job to you and your team,” Shelton told the crowd. “I know this one stings, sorry you didn’t go back-to-back titles, but you’re that type of player who can go back to back. I want to see you do it again this year, hopefully in Stuttgart.

“You’ve been such an inspiration to kids, people of color in our sport, just an amazing representation,” said Shelton who is now 2-0 against Tiafoe. “You’ve been that guy to always put on for us and always be selfless, thinking about others, kids younger than you. So thanks for everything that you do for our sport and people who look like you and me.”

It’s Shelton’s second title of his young career after winning Tokyo last fall.

Tiafoe won the title last year. He was seeking his first trophy since Stuttgart.

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