The National Times - Shelton downs friend Fils to reach Basel final

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Shelton downs friend Fils to reach Basel final

SPORTS 26.10.2024

Shelton downs friend Fils to reach Basel final / Photo: © AFP

The United States' Ben Shelton admitted it had been "difficult to play" close friend Arthur Fils after downing the Frenchman in straight sets to reach the Basel ATP final on Saturday.

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The sixth-seed came through 6-3, 7-6(11/9) without facing a break point.

Now into his second ATP 500 final after his 2023 title in Tokyo, Shelton will play fourth seed Holger Rune or Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in Sunday's final.

"I think it's always difficult to play friends, but maybe it was a little bit easier for me because he beat me in Tokyo and I wanted revenge," said 22-year-old Shelton.

"He got the title that week, so hopefully I can come and get this title this week."

By making the final, Shelton has guaranteed himself a return to the top 20.

S.Clarke--TNT

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