SWISS INDOORS
Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard clinched his inaugural ATP 500 title by defeating Ben Shelton at the Swiss Indoors Basel, with a score of 6-4, 7-6(4). Ranked No. 50, Perricard’s win marks him as the lowest-ranked champion in the tournament's history since it transitioned to a tour-level event in 1975. The 21-year-old Frenchman has had a remarkable year, rising from No. 205 at the beginning of 2024 after capturing several Challenger titles and an ATP 250 trophy in Lyon earlier this year. His exceptional serving in Basel, highlighted by 22 aces and a perfect service game record, played a crucial role in his success.
Shelton, the sixth seed, reached the final after defeating Diego Schwartzman in the semifinals, but struggled to find break-point opportunities against Perricard. The Frenchman capitalized on an early break in the first set and maintained control, thwarting Shelton's attempts to recover. Notably, the American couldn't secure a single break point during the match.
“It’s amazing to win a tournament like that, a 500, for the first time for me,” said Perricard, reflecting on his triumph after a tough month. His win at Basel follows earlier success at an ATP 250 event in Lyon, marking a significant rise in his ranking to a career-high No. 31.
Known names like Wawrinka. Rune and Auger-Ailassime featured but it was the youngsters who shone throughtout the tournament.
It is important to know that Shelton (6) will be featuring next month in the Davis cup, for team USA.
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