Tennis

Shelton and Nakashima to face off in all-American championship match in Montreal.

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Aug 13, 2026, 08:59 IST

Ben Shelton, the reigning champion, is set to compete against Brandon Nakashima in a final featuring only American players at the National Bank Open.

Shelton and Nakashima to face off in all-American championship match in Montreal.

Defending champion Ben Shelton showcased his prowess on the court by defeating fellow American Learner Tien in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3, during the semifinals of the National Bank Open held in Montreal on Wednesday night. This victory propels the fifth-seeded Shelton into the final, where he will face another American player, Brandon Nakashima.

Path to the Final

In the other semifinal match, the 28th-seeded Nakashima secured his spot in the final by overcoming 19-year-old Rafael Jodar from Spain with a score of 7-6 (3), 6-4. This marks Nakashima's first appearance in an ATP Masters 1000 final, a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. The 20-year-old Tien, who was seeded 12th in the tournament, put up a commendable fight but ultimately fell short against Shelton's experience and skill.

Ben Shelton, at just 23 years old, has already made a name for himself in the tennis world, with six career titles to his credit. This year alone, he has triumphed in tournaments in Dallas, Munich, and Stuttgart, demonstrating his consistent performance on the ATP tour. Meanwhile, Nakashima, who claimed his first tour title in 2022 at the San Diego Open, is eager to add another trophy to his collection as he prepares for the final showdown.

Looking Ahead

The upcoming final promises to be an exciting clash between two rising stars of American tennis. Both players have shown remarkable talent and determination throughout the tournament, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter. As Shelton aims to defend his title, Nakashima will be looking to secure his first Masters 1000 title, making this match a highly anticipated event for tennis fans.

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