Shelton supports Djokovic's revolution in tennis: "I would like to play in that format"

Ben Shelton has positioned himself as the main candidate to win the ATP Montreal 2026 after his victory last night against Jenson Brooksby. Additionally, in the post-match press conference, he spoke about the revolutionary change proposed by Novak Djokovic for tennis a few days ago, something the American would welcome.

Nole suggested that matches be played in sets of 4 games and no advantages, an opinion that sparked an intense debate and a diversity of opinions. Shelton is among those in favor of a change, even if it's just to try it out and see how it works, and he has made that known. For now, his mind is set on Montreal, where he defends his title and his path has been eased after the defeats of many of his closest rivals.

Shelton talks about his comeback in the second set against Brooksby

For me, it was simply about staying focused. I was returning really well throughout the match, so I knew I would have opportunities to break back. Achieving two breaks in the second set to win it was crucial. I think it demonstrates a great maturity as a player. Being able to come back from a break down, something that usually just means losing a set 6-2 or 6-3, and winning it in consecutive sets was important for me and for my confidence going into the rest of the tournament.

Good feelings in his debut

Yes, one hundred percent. My first victory in consecutive sets since the first round in Halle. I think being able to close out a match in two sets, maintaining focus until the end and staying on top, each match has its ups and downs and each opponent is different, but yes, I’m happy with how I performed today.

Djokovic's proposal to change the format in tennis

I think it could be good. It was interesting for him to say it, because he has always been the one in the best shape on the circuit, the one who can endure five or six hours, no matter what. It would certainly be an interesting change. Tennis is a traditional sport, and tournaments like to maintain their traditions, but I would like to play some matches in this format. I thought it was great how they did it in the Next Gen finals. I like the five-set format. Whether it’s a reduced format or a full one, I think it could be good.

Feelings when stepping onto the court in a big stadium

I think it’s great. Obviously, it’s fantastic for me. I always wear my headphones, so I guess I don’t hear the outside noise that much, but seeing all the fans cheering is really awesome. That makes this tournament special, along with the interview before going on court, which I’m not so used to and not a big fan of, but it’s something you have to get used to.

Shelton comments on the upsets of the seeds in Montreal

There are many ways to look at it. There have always been players outside the Big Three, or outside Sinner and Alcaraz, who are excellent. I think there is a lot of talent at all levels. First-round matches are tougher than ever. To be honest, there’s a lot of talent up to the 150th position in the world ranking, and even further down. I don’t think the gap in level is that big. 

But I do think that this year, except for three players, the rest of the circuit has been very unpredictable. Obviously, when Alcaraz played, he was very consistent. Zverev has been very consistent this year, and so has Sinner, but I think there have been many more opportunities outside of that group, and it’s something I definitely want to take advantage of in the remaining part of the year, especially on hard courts.

Expectations for the tournament

I think there are many players playing excellent tennis. I don’t think the level is excessively low, so to speak. It’s probably a bit stronger than Canada last year, considering the players' form, but it definitely represents an opportunity for players when Sinner and Alcaraz are not in the draw, although it’s not something I think about much. Anyway, I’m not one to look at the draw; I simply focus on the match I have ahead.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Shelton apoya la revolución de Djokovic en el tenis: "Me gustaría jugar en ese formato"