Melbourne, Jan 20 (Agency) Ben Shelton sealed a gripping victory over 38-year-old Gael Monfils on Monday to advance to the Australian Open 2025 quarterfinals. The 22-year-old American triumphed 7-6(3) 6-7(3) 7-6(2) 1-0 retired after nearly three hours of intense action. Monfils, a 19th-time Australian Open participant, was forced to retire due to a back injury after pushing Shelton to the limit. Monfils had impressed throughout the tournament, riding an eight-match winning streak, but the physically demanding contest took a toll on his body.
Shelton, the 21st seed, showed resilience and skill to secure a hard-fought win. Monfils, whose physical limitations became evident after an exhausting match schedule, acknowledged the challenges of his lengthy career, which includes an ATP title in Auckland earlier this month.Meanwhile, Italian Lorenzo Sonego made history by reaching his first Grand Slam quarterfinal, dispatching American Learner Tien 6-3 6-2 3-6 6-1. The 29-year-old veteran demonstrated experience over the young American, who struggled physically in the latter stages of the match. Sonego’s performance, alongside Shelton’s, highlights the exciting prospects of both seasoned and emerging talent at this year’s Australian Open.