Ben Shelton and Brandon Nakashima have reached the Canadian Open final in Montreal, setting up the first all-American ATP Masters 1000 final since 2003.
Defending champion Shelton booked his place with a 6-2, 6-3 victory over fellow American Learner Tien. The fifth seed overcame a minor injury after crashing into the back wall but still closed out the match in straight sets.
Nakashima then produced another impressive performance, defeating Spanish teenager Rafael Jodar 7-6(3), 6-4 to reach his first Masters 1000 final.
Shelton chasing another Canadian Open title
Shelton is back in the final one year after winning the tournament.
The American has been particularly impressive throughout this year's run, reaching the championship match without dropping a set.
He will now attempt to become the first player since Rafael Nadal to successfully defend the Canadian Open title.
Nakashima reaches first Masters 1000 final
For Nakashima, the occasion is even more significant.
The 25-year-old has reached his first ATP Masters 1000 final, overcoming Jodar's challenge with a composed performance built around his serve and consistency.
A victory would give Nakashima his first Masters 1000 championship.
A rare American final
The matchup is historic.
Shelton and Nakashima will contest the first all-American ATP Masters 1000 final since Andy Roddick defeated Mardy Fish in Cincinnati in 2003.
It also gives American men's tennis an important moment ahead of the US Open.
Shelton has won all five of his previous meetings with Nakashima, including their meeting at last year's Canadian Open.
The final presents a fascinating contrast.
Shelton arrives with the experience of already winning this tournament and the confidence of an unbeaten run through the draw.
Nakashima, meanwhile, is playing in his first Masters 1000 final and has nothing to lose.
Both Americans possess powerful serves, meaning return games could prove crucial. Shelton's previous dominance in the matchup gives him an obvious psychological advantage, but Nakashima's run to the final suggests he is arriving in the best possible form.
One American will leave Montreal with the Canadian Open trophy — and both have already made history by reaching the final.
Comments (0)
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!