Sebastian Korda, a rising star in the tennis world, made history by reaching the semifinals at the Shanghai Masters for the first time. In a thrilling match against Ben Shelton, Korda showcased his resilience and determination, ultimately winning the match with a score of 6-7, 6-2, 7-6. This intense battle marked the first all-American Masters quarterfinal since 2017, making it a significant milestone in Korda’s career.
Despite facing setbacks during the match, Korda managed to stay composed and focused, which played a crucial role in his victory. Reflecting on the intense moments, Korda expressed gratitude for his ability to remain calm. “I’m just thankful to stay calm,” he said. “I played some bad points but I always believed in myself, even at 6-6 (in the final tiebreaker). I just thought about putting the return in the court, somehow getting my racquet on it and luckily I finished it off then.” This display of mental strength and self-belief showcases the potential for Korda to become a force to be reckoned with in the tennis world.
Sebastian Korda’s success at the Shanghai Masters is not an isolated incident. He has consistently demonstrated his talent throughout the tour’s Asia swing, reaching the semifinals at both the Zhuhai Open and the Astana Open. Korda’s consistent performance in these tournaments solidifies his rising status as a prominent player in the international tennis scene.
Ben Shelton, despite being seeded 19th and playing in his first Masters quarterfinal, proved to be a formidable opponent for Korda. With 17 aces in the match, Shelton showcased his powerful serve. However, Korda’s ability to break Shelton’s serve five times ultimately made the difference. This victory against a tough competitor adds another layer of significance to Korda’s achievement.
Looking ahead, Korda is set to face Hubert Hurkacz in the semifinals of the Shanghai Masters. Hurkacz, known for his formidable shots and aggression, showcased his skills in his match against Fabian Marozsan. After a comeback from a set down, Hurkacz secured a 4-6, 6-1, 6-3 victory. Korda recognizes the challenge that lies ahead but remains positive and committed to his game plan. “To be aggressive because if I dropped anything short he was just taking advantage of it and coming with some really incredible shots,” Hurkacz acknowledged.
As Sebastian Korda continues to make waves in the tennis world, his performance at the Shanghai Masters sets a promising foundation for his future. With his young age and already impressive achievements, Korda’s journey is one to keep a close eye on. Whether he reaches further heights in this tournament or continues to excel in future competitions, there is no doubt that Korda’s name will continue to shine brightly in the world of tennis.
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