Australian Open Tennis: Ben Shelton Advances to Quarterfinals, Ends Teenager’s Fairytale Run
Australian Open 2025: Quarterfinal Lineup Set
Ben Shelton, 22, has advanced to the quarterfinals of the Australian Open, defeating French veteran Gael Monfils in a grueling match. Shelton won 7-6(7/3), 6-7(3/7), 7-6(7/2), 1-0, with each of the first three sets lasting almost an hour.
Shelton’s Victory
Shelton, who matched his 2023 run to the last eight at Melbourne Park, praised Monfils, saying, "At 38 years old I hope I’m still walking without crutches. To push me the way he did the way he did today and entertain everyone is so impressive." Monfils, ranked 41, upset fourth seed Taylor Fritz in the third round, but the exertion of several long matches on the back of winning the lead-up Auckland Classic took its toll.
Sonego Advances, Ends Teenager’s Run
Shelton will next meet Lorenzo Sonego, who ended teenage qualifier Learner Tien’s fairytale run. Sonego, 29, blasted into his first Grand Slam quarterfinal on his 26th attempt. He proved a bridge too far for 19-year-old American Tien, who stunned fifth seed Daniil Medvedev in Round 2.
Tien’s Disappointment
Tien’s bid to become the youngest man to reach the quarterfinals since Goran Ivanisevic in 1989 came to an end. He wilted, succumbing 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-2 with a right thigh problem not helping. "Unbelievable. It’s pretty emotional, today was tough," Sonego said. "So sad because he had some problem. It’s not the right way to win but I’m so happy to reach the quarterfinals."
Match Details
Shelton and Monfils engaged in a thrilling contest, with the first set going to a tiebreak, which Shelton won with four consecutive points. The second set also went to a tiebreak, which Monfils won. The third set saw the players exchange breaks, but Shelton ultimately emerged victorious, ending Monfils’ resistance with a series of winners to take the tiebreak and the veteran retired soon after.
Conclusion
Ben Shelton’s victory sets up a quarterfinal clash with Lorenzo Sonego, who ended Learner Tien’s fairytale run. Sonego, who proved a bridge too far for Tien, will look to continue his impressive run in the tournament.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How did Ben Shelton win his match against Gael Monfils?
A: Shelton won 7-6(7/3), 6-7(3/7), 7-6(7/2), 1-0, with each of the first three sets lasting almost an hour.
Q: Who will Ben Shelton face in the quarterfinals?
A: Shelton will face Lorenzo Sonego, who ended teenager Learner Tien’s fairytale run.
Q: Why did Learner Tien’s run come to an end?
A: Tien wilted, succumbing 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-2 with a right thigh problem not helping.