Tirante Triumphs Over Shelton in Houston Upset
Argentinian star eliminates the 2024 champion
April 03, 2026
Highlights from US Clay
Thiago Agustin Tirante claims victory against Ben Shelton in a thrilling three-set matchup on Friday.
By ATP Staff
In a remarkable display of skill, World No. 83 Thiago Agustin Tirante secured one of his most monumental victories on Friday in Houston, defeating the top seed and reigning 2024 champion Ben Shelton with scores of 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-4, earning his spot in the semi-finals of the Fayez Sarofim & Co. U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship.
Earlier in the week, Tirante demonstrated his prowess by losing just three games against Colton Smith and only two against Mackenzie McDonald in the subsequent round. His confidence surged as he faced Shelton, marking the second Top-10 victory of his career in a match lasting two hours and 30 minutes.
“I’m elated with this win, my second Top-10 victory,” Tirante shared. “I knew Ben was an exceptional player, so I had to take calculated risks throughout the match.”
“I executed some plays well and stumbled on others, but that was crucial. I had to maintain mental strength and focus on breaking his serve, as his serve is impressive. I did my best.”
The 24-year-old recently peaked at a career-high rank of World No. 74 in the PIF ATP Rankings and is currently positioned at No. 71 in the PIF ATP Live Rankings. Notably, just two years ago, he defeated then-World No. 8 Andrey Rublev on his way to an ATP Tour semi-final in Bastad. Now, after this latest triumph, he boasts a 2-0 record against the Top 10.
“I know I’m capable. Every match teaches you something, whether through winning or learning,” Tirante remarked. “I’m thrilled with the level I displayed here, for my audience, myself, and my team.”
Shelton required a medical timeout during the second set for treatment from the ATP physiotherapist due to a likely neck or upper back issue. Nevertheless, the Dallas champion fought valiantly, pushing Tirante to elevate his gameplay.
Tirante rose to the challenge, showcasing his aggressive forehand to dominate baseline rallies while winning an impressive 88% of his first-serve points, according to Infosys ATP Stats. He successfully defended his serve in his inaugural Lexus ATP Head2Head encounter with Shelton.
With an Argentine guaranteed to reach his first ATP Tour final, earlier in the day Roman Andres Burruchaga defeated the third seed Learner Tien with a score of 7-5, 6-4.
Like Tirante, Burruchaga is on a quest to reach his first championship match at the tour level, having won 42% of his return points against Tien and converting three of his four break opportunities.
