Carlos Alcaraz defeats Ben Shelton in intense French Open battle

At the ongoing French Open held in Paris, France, reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz faced American Ben Shelton in a gripping fourth-round match on Sunday, June 1, 2025. Alcaraz, ranked second, emerged victorious after a fiercely contested match that lasted over three hours, ending with scores of 7-6 (10/8), 6-3, 4-6, and 6-4. This encounter was marked by intense rallies, powerful serves, and strategic drop shots, showcasing the skills of both players. Alcaraz had previously stated concerns about his fragility in the tournament but succeeded in demonstrating resilience against the rising star Shelton, who had recently reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open. Throughout the match, both players displayed their respective strengths, with Shelton serving at impressive speeds of up to 143 mph. Alcaraz's victory allowed him to continue his quest for back-to-back French Open titles and he will next face Tommy Paul, another American, who won his match earlier. Post-match, Alcaraz acknowledged the challenges he faced from Shelton, admitting that his emotions fluctuated throughout the encounter. He expressed appreciation for the competition and emphasized the respect he holds for Shelton, as both players contributed to an entertaining match that delighted fans. Alcaraz's win marks his 100th Tour level victory on clay-court, affirming his dominance on the surface and showcasing his competitive spirit.