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American tennis player Ben Shelton moved closer to a successful defence of his ATP Montreal Masters title after delivering a dominant quarter-final performance against Jakub Mensik on Tuesday.
The world number 10 defeated the Czech teenager 6-3, 6-1 to extend his winning streak in Canada to 10 matches. Shelton, the only remaining top-10 player in the tournament, controlled the contest from the start to secure a place in Wednesday’s semi-final.
The 22-year-old produced an impressive display, hitting 18 winners while making just three unforced errors during the 72-minute match. He has now won 12 of his 14 career matches in Canada and is yet to drop a set in this year’s tournament.
“It was a great performance for me, super happy with that and to be in the semis again,” Shelton said.
Reflecting on his display, the American added that he felt confident throughout the match.
“I felt great, I played well from the ground from point one. I’m right where I want to be,” Shelton said. “I maintained a high level throughout the match. I’m super happy with how I played. I hope to continue to build on this in the semis.”
Shelton will face either fellow American Learner Tien or Spain’s Daniel Merida for a place in the final.
Elsewhere, Spanish teenager Rafael Jodar continued his impressive run at the tournament by defeating France’s Arthur Fils 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 to reach his first Masters 1000 semi-final in only his fifth appearance at that level.
The 19-year-old overcame a minor ankle issue in the second set and stayed composed despite a tense match that was delayed by rain. Fils also showed frustration after losing an early break in the second set, smashing his racquet before mounting a late fightback.
Jodar, who has won 34 matches this season and climbed to 15th in the world rankings, said improving his performance remains more important than focusing on rankings.
“That shouldn’t be your primary thing and your goal,” Jodar said. “My goal is to have fun on court and to enjoy all the tournaments that are new for me.”
He will meet American Brandon Nakashima in the semi-final after the 25-year-old defeated Italy’s Luciano Darderi 6-2, 6-3 in 77 minutes.
Nakashima, who reached his 16th career semi-final, credited his serve and attacking approach for the victory.
“My serve was super important. It got me out of some tough holes,” Nakashima said. “I also took my opportunities on return when I needed to. I knew I had to open up the court.”
The American enters the semi-final in strong form, having won seven of his last eight matches and describing his confidence as being at an “all-time high” following a recent run to the Washington semi-finals.
