Ben Shelton pulls off comeback win to claim biggest title of career in Canada

Ziyad Jamal

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Ben Shelton pulls off comeback win to claim biggest title of career in Canada image

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Ben Shelton displayed immense spirit and determination in the 2025 Canadian Open final to win the biggest title of his career to date.

The American fourth seed rallied from behind to conquer 11th seed Karen Khachanov 6-7 (5-7) 6-4 7-6 (7-3), and take home the ATP Masters 1000 trophy in Toronto.

The triumph on Thursday night (August 7) represents a first tournament win for Shelton at the 1000 level on the ATP Tour after two previous wins at 250 level events.

At 22, Shelton becomes the youngest American man to win a 1000 event since Andy Roddick did at the Miami Open 21 years ago.

Having failed to convert three set points in the final's opening set, the pivotal moment for Shelton arrived in the tenth and last game of the second set as he looked to force a decider.

The American miraculously fought off four break points to prevent his opponent levelling the second set's score at 5-5.

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With both players not giving up serve in the third and final set, Shelton eventually made his move in the tie-break as he broke Khachanov on the first point.

He then refused to look back in the tie-break and secured the title on his second championship point.

Ben Shelton

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Shelton's journey at the 2025 Canadian Open

The final victory for the young American star caps off a strong showing in the Canadian capital over the past week.

He eliminated Washington Open champion Alex de Minaur and American no. 2 seed Taylor Fritz en route to making the final.

After beating Khachanov, Shelton reflected on a successful tournament in Toronto, saying: "It’s a surreal feeling. 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.”

Shelton will next be in action at the Cincinnati Open, with his opening round match set to be played this weekend.

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Ziyad Jamal

Ziyad Jamal contributes to Sporting News - UK Wires as a freelance writer focusing on all sports. He has written for sites including GiveMeSport, Planet Sport and IBTimes UK. He graduated with a degree in BA (Hons) Football Business and Media at UCFB Wembley in 2021.