Ben Shelton was unable to take home the Paris Masters title after losing to Carlos Alcaraz in the final.
Shelton, who will be coached by Juan Carlos Ferrero next year, Alcaraz’s former coach, had never been past the quarter-finals of the Paris Masters before, but was able to make it all the way to the final this year.
The American had beaten Alcaraz in their most recent meeting at the US Open, but Shelton was unable to do so again in Paris after being defeated 7-6(5), 7-5 in the final.
Alcaraz is now on a 10-match winning streak after winning the Vienna Open last week as well, and Shelton has explained what people do not understand about his latest achievement.
Ben Shelton praises Carlos Alcaraz for winning back-to-back titles
Shelton addressed Alcaraz straight away in his speech during the post-match ceremony, where he praised the Spaniard for his victory in Paris. Shelton wanted to particularly highlight how impressive it was for Alcaraz to adapt so quickly to the different conditions from Vienna to Paris, something he claimed some wouldn’t realise.
“It has been an amazing experience this week and it’s an honour every time I am on this court,” said Shelton.
“I want to give a big congratulations to Carlos and your team. I don’t think everybody realises how difficult it is to go back to back in Paris and Vienna. 10 matches in 14 days and going from a slow court and a very fast court. I think it speaks to your versatility as a champion and all the work you put in.
“Every time that we are on the court together I feel you bring out the best in me. I think I get better every time I am on the court with you and I am super happy to have you back and healthy.”
Tim Henman reacts after Carlos Alcaraz beats Ben Shelton in the Paris Masters final
Alcaraz now joins a host of champions at the prestigious Paris Masters tournament including Tim Henman, who was courtside for his victory over Shelton.
When speaking live for Sky Sports, Henman admitted that it was not the most high quality match, but praised Alcaraz for the way he played in the most important moments of the match.
“I don’t think it was a classic match,” claimed Henman. “It was fairly erratic from both men, but when it mattered most Alcaraz was able to come up with the goods when he needed it.”
Alcaraz spent nearly five months on the sidelines with a wrist injury, before returning at the US Open, and since returning he has already won three titles, something that Henman also wanted to comment on.
“I think the secret to that was making sure that his wrist was 100%,” added Henman. “The way he uses his wrist and the way any player does, it’s so important. He plays with so much racket head speed and acceleration, so it’s great to see he is fit and healthy.”
Alcaraz has now won seven of the nine Masters 1000 titles available, with just the Canadian Open and the Shanghai Masters missing from his trophy cabinet.
Discover more from NAIRAVOICE.COM.NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
