Stefanos Tsitsipas encountered a significant challenge in the form of rising star Ben Shelton during the 2023 Cincinnati Masters. However, Tsitsipas adeptly navigated the match, emerging victorious in two sets.
In a manner reminiscent of his performance the previous year, the Greek player had reached the final at the ATP 1000 event in Cincinnati. This match resembled his previous year's playstyle, characterized by a dominant serve—a crucial weapon that had propelled him to the final. However, in the past year, he encountered a superior server in Borna Coric.
Shelton posed a formidable threat to Tsitsipas due to his potent serve. As anticipated in our preview, the match unfolded as a closely contested affair, marking a definite improvement for Tsitsipas compared to his premature exit against Gael Monfils the previous week.
The opening set culminated in a tiebreak, as both competitors fiercely held their ground through the initial twelve games. While aces were limited, an abundance of service winners ensued. Notably, they collectively relinquished only four points behind their first serves, conceding no break points. Tsitsipas showcased superior composure in the tiebreak, securing a 7-3 victory.
The second set mirrored the closely fought nature of the first, with serves once again reigning supreme. Impressively, their service performance escalated in the second set, yielding even fewer points until the tiebreak.
Towards the end of the second set, Shelton encountered considerable difficulties, ultimately faltering in the tiebreak. This lapse allowed Tsitsipas to capitalize and clinch victory decisively. The final score stood at 7-6(3) 7-6(2), underscored by remarkable statistics.
Tsitsipas thwarted any breakpoint opportunities against him, losing a mere three points behind his first serve and amassing 23 winners. The upcoming round against either Hubert Hurkacz or Borna Coric will determine if Tsitsipas can replicate his exceptional performance.
