Ben Shelton produced one of the most memorable wins of his career to capture the ATP 500 title at the 2026 Dallas Open, edging fellow American Taylor Fritz in a dramatic three‑set final on Sunday.
Facing the top seed Fritz, Shelton lost the first set 3‑6 but responded strongly to take the second 6‑3 and force a decisive third. The match remained tight throughout, with momentum swinging back and forth until Shelton saved three championship points in the 10th game of the final set. From there he consolidated his advantage and closed out the contest 3‑6, 6‑3, 7‑5 to secure the victory.
The 23‑year‑old’s comeback showcased his resilience and mental strength under pressure. In the final stages, after fending off match points, Shelton dropped just a few points on serve on his way to the title, which marked his fourth ATP Tour victory and his first on an indoor court.
Shelton’s run through the tournament included multiple tight battles, and his performance in Dallas added to a growing reputation as one of the tour’s most competitive players when matches go the distance. His win over Fritz improved his head‑to‑head record against the Californian and continues a trend of strong late‑match performances.
For Fritz, reaching the Dallas final was another achievement in a consistent season and his 20th career ATP Tour final. Despite leading early in the title match and displaying powerful serving throughout the event, he was unable to convert the opportunities that would have sealed the championship.
The Nexo Dallas Open, held on indoor hard courts in Frisco, Texas, featured top players from around the world and delivered a compelling conclusion with two of America’s highest‑ranked men in the title decider.
Fans and analysts alike praised Shelton’s performance, noting the intensity of the final and the dramatic way he seized the championship. His ability to rally from a set behind and handle the pressure points played a key role in what many are calling one of the standout matches of the early 2026 ATP season.
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