Ben Shelton triumphed over Lorenzo Sonego in a thrilling Australian Open quarterfinal match, securing his place in the semifinals with a score of 6-4, 7-5, 4-6, 7-6(4). The young American, just 22 years old, showcased his talents while also entertaining fans with his post-fall push-ups during a dramatic tiebreaker. Shelton’s victory marks his second Grand Slam semifinal appearance.
In a nod to his opponent, Shelton praised Sonego’s remarkable shot—a diving volley that spun over the net—and recognized the intense competition they shared on the court. Shelton will now face off against the tournament’s top seed, Jannik Sinner, who dominated Alex de Minaur in the other quarterfinal match. Sinner’s path to the semifinals has seen him extend his impressive winning streak to 19 matches.
Both players demonstrated exceptional skills, with Shelton contributing 11 break points against Sonego and converting three, further highlighting his growing proficiency with his return game. His powerful serves, including a 144 mph ace that tied for the tournament’s fastest, set the tone for his performance.
The crowd was deeply entertained by both players, with Sonego also delivering impressive plays, including a creative hook shot that resulted in a winner. This semifinal match-up brings excitement as Shelton looks to advance further in a tournament where he is already making waves and establishing himself on the global tennis stage.
Looking ahead, the women’s semifinals promise more high-stakes action, featuring top talents like Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek, ensuring that the Australian Open continues to deliver thrilling matches for tennis fans around the world. Shelton’s journey is a reminder of the potential that young athletes bring to the sport, and his determination reflects a hopeful future for American tennis.