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Ben Shelton reflects on early American exits at the DC Open

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 2:24 AM

Last updated Jul 30, 2026

Ben Shelton reflects on early American exits at the DC Open

Summary

Ben Shelton is among the few American men remaining at the Mubadala DC Open in Washington, D.C., after several top players, including Frances Tiafoe and Tommy Paul, exited in the early rounds. Shelton advanced past Martin Damm Jr. with a score of 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, while Tiafoe lost to Térence Atmane, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, and Paul fell to Kamil Majchrzak, 7-5, 7-6(4). Shelton acknowledged the emotional weight of competing on home soil and the challenges faced after a break from play. He emphasized that the tournament's strength has increased this year and expressed confidence as he prepares to face Ugo Humbert in the Round of 16.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•12 Americans started in the main draw; only Shelton, Taylor Fritz, Alex Michelsen, and Brandon Nakashima remain.
•Shelton faces Ugo Humbert next in the Round of 16.
•Tiafoe and Paul lost their opening matches, contributing to early American exits.
•Shelton highlighted the emotional challenge of competing in D.C.
•He noted the tournament's strong competition this year.

Latest Updates

2:24 AMYahoo Sports — ‘A Target on Your Back’ – Ben Shelton Weighs In After Frances Tiafoe and Other Americans Lose Early at DC Open

What they're saying

"
Ben Shelton remains one of the few American men left in contention at the Mubadala DC Open after the tournament began with 12 home players in the main draw. With several of his compatriots being knocked out early, including big names like Frances Tiafoe and Tommy Paul, Shelton has shared his thoughts on their unexpected losses.
— Yahoo Sports

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