The Cincinnati Open, a cornerstone of the ATP Masters 1000 circuit, kicked off with a wave of American pride as Ben Shelton, the newly crowned National Bank Open champion, took to social media to laud his compatriot Emilio Nava for a stunning first-round victory. Shelton, fresh off his career-defining triumph in Toronto, expressed his admiration with a single, heartfelt word: “Proud.” Nava, a 23-year-old wildcard entrant, upset world No. 26 Alex Michelsen in a thrilling 6-4, 6-7(5), 7-6(3) battle, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. The win not only showcased Nava’s grit but also underscored the rising tide of American talent on the ATP Tour, with Shelton leading the charge.
Nava’s victory was no small feat. Facing a higher-ranked opponent, the young American displayed resilience, rallying through a tense third-set tiebreak to secure his place in the second round. The match, played under the bright lights of the Lindner Family Tennis Center, captivated fans with its back-and-forth drama. Nava’s ability to hold his nerve against Michelsen, a fellow American and rising star, highlighted his potential to break into the upper echelons of the sport. For Shelton, who has known Nava since their junior days, the win was a moment to celebrate. The two have a history, having partnered in doubles at the 2024 Dallas Open, where their camaraderie was evident in playful moments, like Shelton jokingly waving for a signed ball during Nava’s practice session. “We’ve been through a lot together,” Shelton said of their friendship, reflecting on their shared journey from junior circuits to the professional stage.
Shelton’s public support for Nava comes at a time when American men’s tennis is enjoying a renaissance. Shelton himself, now ranked a career-high world No. 6, has been a trailblazer, becoming the youngest American to win a Masters 1000 title since Andy Roddick in 2004. His recent victory over Karen Khachanov in Toronto, a 6-7(5), 6-4, 7-6(3) epic, showcased his ability to rebound from adversity, a trait he clearly admires in Nava. “It’s a surreal feeling,” Shelton said after his Toronto triumph, a sentiment that resonates as he watches Nava carve his own path. Nava’s win over Michelsen positions him as a potential dark horse in Cincinnati, where he now faces a daunting second-round clash against either Camilo Ugo Carabelli or Kei Nishikori.
The Cincinnati Open, with its expanded draw and star-studded field, is a critical tune-up for the US Open, starting August 27. For Nava, this victory boosts his confidence as he aims to build on a season that has already seen him defeat John Isner in Miami and reach the third round of the 2023 US Open. His aggressive baseline game and powerful serve, clocked among the fastest on tour, echo Shelton’s own style, making their mutual respect all the more poignant. “He’s a fighter, and he’s got the game to go far,” Shelton noted, praising Nava’s tenacity and potential to challenge top players.
Shelton, seeded fifth in Cincinnati, is also in action, benefiting from a first-round bye. His second-round match pits him against the winner of Carabelli and Nishikori, setting up a potential clash with Nava if both advance. Such a matchup would be a testament to the depth of American tennis, with players like Shelton, Nava, Taylor Fritz, and Frances Tiafoe all vying for prominence. Shelton’s recent success, including a straight-sets win over Khachanov at Indian Wells earlier this year, has him poised for a deep run, but his focus on Nava’s achievement speaks to his character. “It’s bigger than just me,” Shelton said after his Toronto win, emphasizing the importance of lifting up those around him.
Nava’s journey, like Shelton’s, is rooted in perseverance. A former top junior, Nava has faced setbacks, including early-round losses at the Delray Beach and Mexican Opens in 2023. Yet his ability to bounce back, much like Shelton’s rally from 0-40 down in Toronto, signals a bright future. The Cincinnati crowd, known for its electric atmosphere, roared as Nava sealed his victory, a moment that Shelton celebrated from afar. “Keep pushing, brother,” Shelton posted alongside his “Proud” message, a nod to their shared ambition.
As the Cincinnati Open unfolds, the spotlight on American players grows brighter. Shelton’s rise to world No. 6 and Nava’s upset victory signal a new era, one where camaraderie and competition go hand in hand. With the US Open looming, Nava’s breakthrough, backed by Shelton’s vocal support, adds another chapter to the story of American tennis—a story of resilience, friendship, and unrelenting drive.
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