Shelton wins 1st ATP final between Black Americans, Tiafoe runner-up in Houston

At the 2023 US Open, Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe made history by featuring in an all-Black, all-American quarterfinal blockbuster. Played out in Arthur Ashe Stadium, the moment represented the first time two African American men advanced to the last eight at the same Grand Slam.

On Sunday in Houston, the pair delivered a second Open Era first: Shelton and Tiafoe contested the first ATP Tour singles final between two Black Americans.

In a hugely entertaining three-setter, the 21-year-old Shelton repeated recent history by backing up his US Open victory in the friendly rivalry. His 7-5, 4-6, 6-3 win earned him his second ATP title and made him the youngest Houston champ since Andy Roddick (19) in 2002.

Now up to a career high of World No. 14, Shelton will become the No. 1 American man next Monday following Taylor Fritz's opening-round loss in Monte Carlo.

With all eyes on him during the Houston trophy ceremony, the gracious and grounded champion used the opportunity to shine the spotlight light on Tiafoe.

“You've been such an inspiration to kids, people of color in our sport, just an amazing representation,” Shelton said of his fellow fan favorite. “You've been that guy to always put on for us and always be selfless, thinking about others, kids younger than you. So thanks for everything that you do for our sport and people who look like you and me.”

In a final of dominant serving performances, each set was decided by a single break. Shelton hit eight aces and saved one of two break points against him, winning 83% of points behind his electric first serve.

In the final set, the younger American secured the decisive break to lead 3-1 before serving out the match with two commanding love holds.

Both players thrilled the crowd with their athleticism and shotmaking throughout the two-hour, 16-minute match. Amidst the intense competition, Shelton and Tiafoe also put their friendship on display by interacting after fun points—much to the delight of the stadium court's full house.

Sunday's title match was the 10th all-American singles final at the Houston event (Open Era) and the sixth all-U.S. final on the ATP Tour since June 2022. There have been three such finals this season, all on U.S. soil in Dallas (Paul d. Giron), Delray Beach (Fritz d. Paul) and Houston.