Shelton defeats Fritz for first grass title at Stuttgart Open

Ben Shelton captured his first grass-court title by defeating defending champion Taylor Fritz 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 in the Stuttgart Open final on Sunday. The 23-year-old American saved nine of the 11 break points he faced and also fended off two match points in his semi-final victory over Jiri Lehecka. This marks Shelton's sixth career ATP Tour title and his third of the season, following wins in Dallas and Munich. He also defeated Fritz in the Dallas final earlier in the year. Shelton's performance in Stuttgart included winning the opening set for the first time in the tournament, though he had to come from behind in previous rounds. Fritz, a specialist on grass, had not previously lost a final on the surface. Shelton's win gives him confidence heading into upcoming tournaments like Halle and Wimbledon.