Carlos Alcaraz defeats Ben Shelton to reach Roland Garros quarter-finals
What's the story
Carlos Alcaraz, a top contender, has progressed to the quarter-finals of the 2023 French Open. The Spaniard defeated American Ben Shelton in a thrilling four-set match on Sunday. The encounter was played on Court Philippe-Chatrier and lasted for three hours and 19 minutes. Alcaraz's victory came with a scoreline of 7-6(8), 6-3, 4-6, 6-4.
Match highlights
Alcaraz's journey to the quarter-finals
The match was a display of aggressive shot-making, excellent net play, and sportsmanship. Alcaraz saved three set points in the first set before taking control in the second with his quick reflexes against Shelton's power. Although Shelton managed to take the third set, Alcaraz fought back in the fourth to secure his place in the last eight at Roland Garros for a fourth straight year.
Post-match reflection
Alcaraz's thoughts on his performance
After the match, Alcaraz reflected on his mental struggle during the game. He said, "Today I fought against myself, against the mind." The Spaniard also expressed happiness over not letting negative thoughts affect his performance. Alcaraz is eyeing his fifth Grand Slam title and third clay-court trophy of the season at Roland Garros this year.
Upcoming match
Alcaraz's next challenge
Alcaraz will next face American Tommy Paul in the quarter-finals. The Spaniard leads their head-to-head series 4-2. Earlier in the tournament, Alcaraz had dropped sets against Fabian Marozsan and Damir Dzumhur but was pushed to his limits by World No. 13 Shelton, who hit hard from both wings in the lively Parisian conditions.
Match analysis
Shelton's performance and ranking
Shelton, who reached the fourth round in Paris for the first time, had three opportunities to win the opening set but made a critical forehand error on serve at 8/8 in the tie-break. Despite his loss, Shelton's performance has improved his position in the PIF ATP Live Rankings. The American is now ranked No. 12 after moving up one spot with his impressive run at Roland Garros this year.
Information
Alcaraz vs Shelton: Match stats
Shelton doled out six aces compared to Alcaraz's five. However, the former committed three double faults to Alcaraz's two. Alcaraz had a 68% win on the 1st serve and a 71% win on the 2nd. He converted 3/7 break points.
Records
Alcaraz makes these record with win over Shelton
As per Opta, Alcaraz has claimed his 100th ATP-level win on clay in 119 matches - among players who began their career in the Open Era, only Rafael Nadal (112) achieved 100 wins in fewer matches on the surface. Alcaraz claimed his 75th career win over an ATP top 20 opponent - since the rankings were first published in 1973, only Jimmy Connors (91) achieved 75 ATP top 20 wins in fewer matches than Alcaraz (109).
Numbers
22 wins at Roland Garros
Alcaraz has improved to a 22-3 win-loss record at the French Open. He hasn't won more matches at the other three Grand Slams. Apart from winning the 2024 French Open, Alcaraz claimed successive Wimbledon titles (2023-2024) and the 2022 US Open honor. Overall at Grand Slams, Alcaraz owns a win-loss record of 68-12.