Shelton beats Fonseca to reach another Montreal quarter-final

Ben Shelton, the current defending champion, secured a quarter-final spot at the ATP Montreal Masters on Sunday by defeating Joao Fonseca 6-3, 7-6 (7/3). The 23-year-old American left-hander, ranked world number 10, maintained an impeccable record by not dropping a set in his journey to the last eight. Fonseca, a Brazilian teenager, faced challenges during the match when he injured his ankle while leading 3-1, 40-30 in the second set.

Shelton expressed his determination, stating that the tough conditions and wind were the main obstacles he had to overcome. He credited his grit and consistency for his victory. Meanwhile, Daniel Merida of Spain advanced to another quarter-final, outlasting Tallon Griekspoor 6-3, 6-1. Merida, a world number 63, claimed his fourth-round win on hardcourt, becoming the first Spaniard to do so in Canada.

His success on the surface could propel him into the top 50. In the other quarter-final, Learner Tien of the United States will face Merida, after defeating Argentine Thiago Tirante 6-4, 6-4.