Ben Shelton defeats Karen Khachanov to clinch historic first ATP Masters title in Canada

Ben Shelton has etched his name in tennis history, becoming the first American in more than two decades to win the ATP Masters 1000 title in Canada. The 22-year-old triumphed over Russia’s Karen Khachanov in a gripping 6-7(5), 6-4, 7-6(3) victory at the Toronto Masters final on Thursday.

The win sees Shelton rise to World No. 6 in the ATP rankings, moving ahead of 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic. His breakthrough makes him the first American to lift the Canadian trophy since Andy Roddick’s victory in 2003.

“It’s a surreal feeling,” Shelton said. “It’s been a long week, not an easy path to the finals, but my best tennis came out when it mattered most.”

Khachanov, chasing his second Masters 1000 crown after winning in Paris in 2018, pushed Shelton to the limit. The 11th seed claimed the opening set after saving three set points and executing a spectacular leaping volley winner.

Shelton, playing with his right quadriceps heavily bandaged, fought back to take the second set. The American’s serve proved crucial, he delivered 16 aces and showed remarkable composure in a tense final set tiebreak, securing victory on his second match point.

In a heartfelt moment, Shelton climbed into the stands to celebrate with his father and coach, Bryan Shelton, himself a former ATP player.

“Karen was bullying me around the court, the balls were coming fast, but I was able to redirect and flip the momentum,” Shelton reflected. “I was clutch, I persevered, qualities that will help me in tennis and in life.”

This Canadian triumph marks Shelton’s third career title, following wins in Tokyo (2023) and Houston (2024).