Ben Shelton Wins First Masters 1000 Title in Epic Toronto Final

Canadian Open fans were treated to a tennis spectacle as American Ben Shelton claimed his first ATP Masters 1000 title in a marathon final against Karen Khachanov.

Shelton, 22, appeared in the semifinal less than 24 hours after beating compatriot Taylor Fritz in straight sets. On Thursday night, he went the distance, battling from a set down to win 6–7 (5), 6–4, 7–6 (3) — a triumph that will rocket his world ranking to No. 6, overtaking Novak Djokovic.

Fans roared for Shelton’s blistering serve and cheeky dropshots. At match point, he bowed his head and lifted an arm—almost in disbelief—confirming that this was indeed his first Masters crown.

Tough Battle, Legendary Win

For nearly three hours, the duel played out like a sprint within a marathon. Shelton powered 16 aces and produced 38 winners. Khachanov responded with unrelenting consistency.

Shelton noted: “It’s been a long week, not an easy path to the final. My best tennis came out when it mattered most. I was clutch, I persevered, I was resilient.”

Next Step: US Open and Beyond

This Masters title is Shelton’s biggest to date and the first by an American in Canada since Andy Roddick’s 2003 win.

Earlier, he clocked big wins over de Minaur and Fritz — both Top 10 stars — to reach the final. His performance also helped him move to fourth in the ATP Live Race to Turin, edging closer to qualification for the Nitto ATP Finals.

He earned a record prize of US$1,124,380 — the largest payout ever at the Canadian Open.

At just 22, and now world No. 6, Shelton joins a rare group. He’s the youngest American Masters champion since Roddick and only the second active American — after Fritz — to claim a Masters 1000 crown.

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