Shelton Wins Toronto Masters

Ben Shelton defeats Karen Khachanov in a three set final to win the Toronto Masters 1000, marking his biggest career triumph.

Shelton Edges Khachanov to Claim Toronto Masters Title

In Toronto, Ben Shelton defeated Karen Khachanov 6-7(5) 6-4 7-6(3) to win the ATP Masters 1000 title. Khachanov looked set to seal the first set when leading 5-4 on serve, but Shelton saved multiple set points and forced a tiebreak, which Khachanov captured 7-5.

The second set swung in Shelton's favor as he pressed with strong serves and a crucial challenge that the crowd followed closely. The decider stayed tight until Shelton converted four match points, the second of which Khachanov put into the net. The match included a Hawkeye moment that drew a playful reaction from Shelton, who joked about the system’s quirks.

Shelton’s win signals a rising wave in American men’s tennis, not just as a breakthrough title but as proof that a new generation can close big matches on the biggest stages. His ability to survive a tense first set, then refocus in the third and convert on pressure points, suggests maturity beyond his years. The episode with Hawkeye also offered a reminder that technology shapes, but does not replace, the human element of competing at the sport’s highest level. As Shelton heads to Cincinnati with momentum, Khachanov’s performance confirms he remains a serious contender in the Masters 1000 circuit, capable of lifting his level when it matters most.

The win could recalibrate expectations for Shelton and signal a deeper shift in the American tour talent pool. If he sustains this level, the early-season momentum may translate into deeper runs at the sport’s major events and broader attention from sponsors and national team programs.

Highlights

The road ahead is tough, but Toronto changes the conversation around Shelton’s trajectory.