In an upcoming match in Turin, Ben Shelton is set to face Felix Auger-Aliassime at 1300 GMT. Despite Shelton being listed at 4/7 to win, many analysts are skeptical about his prospects. His recent performance against Alex Zverev was sobering, where his second serve proved vulnerable, winning only 24% of points. Additionally, he failed to register a single break point during that match, raising concerns about his ability to compete at a high level.
Shelton’s track record against top 10 players this season stands at a disappointing 2-8, with both victories occurring during an exceptional week in Toronto. It’s notable that the two players had faced each other previously at Roland Garros, where Shelton also struggled to create break points, ultimately losing in straight sets: 6-4, 6-2, 6-1. This historical context could be indicative of his challenges against Auger-Aliassime.
On the other hand, Auger-Aliassime has been riding a wave of form, notching 22 wins in his last 28 matches. While he recently lost to Jannik Sinner, his performance was competitive, especially in the first set. The Canadian’s serving has been strong, which may pose difficulties for Shelton, whose recent play has been inconsistent since facing an injury during the US Open.
An interesting element in Auger-Aliassime’s recent match was a calf problem that required treatment, leading to concerns about his fitness. However, he expressed confidence post-match and continued with his practice sessions. Given the odds and his recent form, Auger-Aliassime may be a worthwhile consideration for bettors despite the injury uncertainty.
As both players prepare for this crucial match, all eyes will be on whether Shelton can rally in a demanding situation or if Auger-Aliassime can overcome his physical concerns to maintain his winning trajectory.