Ben Shelton admitted it was a ‘privilege’ to share the court with Joao Fonseca after their quarter-final battle in Munich.
The American defeated Fonseca 6-3 3-6 6-3 to reach the semi-finals in Munich where he will face Alex Molcan.
Shelton is aiming to go one step better than last year’s final performance as he lost to Alexander Zverev with the two set to meet again this year.
Speaking after the match Shelton heaped praise on Fonseca and described the Brazilian as ‘electric,’ “He is an electric player,” Shelton admitted to the ATP website.
“One of the fastest rising players on Tour, so it has been cool to see his trajectory. For me, being out here and sharing a court with him is a privilege. He has got such great energy and fans around the world, and I really enjoy these types of atmospheres.”
In the other semi-final Zverev will battle Flavio Cobolli after the German defeated Francisco Cerundolo 5-7 6-2 6-0.
The German had a 4-1 lead in the opening set but Cerundolo battled back before Zverev secured victory in three sets.
After the contest, Zverev hailed the contest as ‘unbelievable,’ “I thought it was an incredible level,” Zverev told the ATP website.
“Even in the first set when I was up 4-1, he started playing unbelievable. He started returning unbelievable. My first-serve percentage was very high, and he started returning a foot in front of the baseline. So there was nothing I could do, to be honest. I was happy with my level even in the first set.
“Definitely happy to get the win today against Francisco, for the first time on clay.”
Zverev is aiming for a fourth title in Munich this week.
