In a stunning turn of events at the Monte-Carlo Masters, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina sends shockwaves as he knocks out World No. 14 Ben Shelton in the first round.
The Spanish clay-court specialist displayed his prowess on the slow surface, outlasting the American in a grueling three-set match that ended 6-7(2), 6-2, 6-1.
Shelton, despite winning a title at the U.S. Clay Court Championships last year, couldn’t find his rhythm against Davidovich Fokina. The 22-year-old American’s hopes were dashed as he suffered a quick exit from Monte-Carlo and now sets his sights on the upcoming tournament in Munich.
The match saw a rollercoaster of momentum swings, with both players fighting tooth and nail for every point. Davidovich Fokina showcased his resilience by bouncing back from a set down to claim victory. The Spaniard’s strategic baseline play and unwavering focus proved too much for Shelton to handle.
With a commanding six-game run in the second set, Davidovich Fokina seized control of the match, leaving Shelton struggling to find answers. The Spaniard’s consistency and shot selection kept Shelton on the back foot, ultimately leading to his downfall.
As the match progressed, it was evident that Davidovich Fokina’s experience on clay was a significant advantage. The Spaniard’s ability to dictate long rallies and keep Shelton off balance highlighted his mastery of the surface.
In a dominating display in the third set, Davidovich Fokina continued his relentless pursuit of victory, leaving Shelton reeling. The American’s game unraveled under the pressure, allowing the Spaniard to secure a convincing win and advance to the next round.
With an impressive performance, Davidovich Fokina now sets his sights on the upcoming challenges in Monte-Carlo. His strategic gameplay and mental fortitude make him a formidable opponent as he looks to make his mark on the tournament.
Stay tuned as the Monte-Carlo Masters unfolds, promising more thrilling matches and unexpected outcomes on the clay courts.