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Ben Shelton advanced to the quarter-finals of the Munich Open after defeating Joao Fonseca in a three-set match. Shelton praised Fonseca's fans for their support during the match.
Photo by Mateo Villalba/Getty Images
Ben Shelton Gives High Praise to 19-Year-Old Joao Fonseca After Munich Open Win
Ben Shelton has moved through to the quarter-finals of the Munich Open after coming from behind to defeat a determined Joao Fonseca in three sets.
After taking the first set, it looked like experience might lead the American to a straightforward win.
Still, Fonseca showed once again why he’s highly regarded, making it clear he’s not just a future prospect but already a threat. In the end, though, Ben Shelton’s consistency paid off. After the match, he spoke highly of the 19-year-old and his ongoing development.
Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images
Speaking after the match, Shelton opened up by reflecting on how the conditions affected play.
He noted that the heat made long rallies difficult to maintain, though he was quick to express his excitement about facing Fonseca again in the future.
The world number eight said: “Certainly a much warmer day today, which caused more serve plus one tennis. Shorter rallies compared to some of the colder days. Not some of the crazy rallies that people wanted.
“But he’s an electric player. One of the fastest rising stars we’ve seen on tour. It’s been cool to see his trajectory.”
Shelton also took a moment to acknowledge Fonseca’s growing support among fans, which has become more noticeable over the past year.
Fonseca may not have reached a final yet this clay season, but he has shown he belongs at this level.
Ben Shelton expressed high praise for Joao Fonseca's fans, acknowledging their support during the match.
Ben Shelton came from behind to defeat Joao Fonseca in three sets, securing his place in the quarter-finals.
After his victory over Joao Fonseca, Ben Shelton advanced to the quarter-finals of the Munich Open.

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With the Madrid Open coming up, the young Brazilian has a real shot to make a run and even chase his first Masters 1000 title.
And with Novak Djokovic out of the tournament and Carlos Alcaraz sidelined by injury, two of the event’s biggest names are already off the board.
If Jannik Sinner decides not to play, that could leave an open path for someone ready to take advantage.
No one should be surprised if Fonseca backs himself to be that player. He has every reason to believe it could be his moment.
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