Can Shelton Continue His Winning Streak Against Zverev?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ben Shelton wins against Jiri Lehecka at Cincinnati Open.
- First American man to reach quarterfinals in both Canada and Cincinnati since 2012.
- Powerful serve and nine-match winning streak.
- Next faces Alexander Zverev, aiming for a breakthrough.
- Opportunity to debut in Top 5 of ATP Rankings.
Cincinnati, Aug 15 (NationPress) Ben Shelton has maintained his impressive momentum at the Cincinnati Open by defeating Czech player Jiri Lehecka with a score of 6-4, 6-4, thus securing a spot in the quarterfinals.
The 22-year-old athlete has become the first American man to reach the last eight in both Canada and Cincinnati during the same season, a feat not accomplished since Mardy Fish in 2012.
In the warm conditions of Cincinnati, Shelton's powerful serve dominated the match. The left-handed player lost only six points on his first serve, including a remarkable ace at 141 mph while closing out the match. He strategically broke Lehecka's serve at 4-4 in both sets, advancing in just one hour and 21 minutes, according to ATP reports.
"I'm hungry. I'm in a good rhythm. I'm playing good tennis and my body feels good. My confidence, along with the drive to continuously prove myself every time I step onto the court, keeps me motivated to improve each match," said Shelton, who is on an impressive nine-match winning streak.
Throughout this tournament, Shelton has not lost a single set in three matches. The three-time tour-level champion is focused on elevating his performance.
"Tennis isn't about perfection. You lose almost every week and half the points you play. My goal is to find those one-percent improvements and get better every day," Shelton added. "Competing in Cincinnati is a fantastic opportunity for me to face some of the best players globally."
Next, Shelton will aim for his first victory against third seed Alexander Zverev, who currently leads their ATP Head-to-Head series 3-0, including two matches this year. If he manages to defeat Zverev, it will secure his Top 5 debut in the ATP Rankings.