Shelton Beats Karatsev for Breakthrough Tour Title at Japan Open. Siniakova Wins Epic in China

Ben Shelton of the U.S. holds the winning trophy after defeating Aslan Karatsev of Russia in the men's singles final of Japan Open tennis championships in Tokyo on Oct. 22, 2023. Shuji Kajiyama/AP Photo

TOKYO—Ben Shelton won his maiden tour title, beating Aslan Karatsev 7–5, 6–1 at the Japan Open on Sunday, Oct. 22.

The 21-year-old American, who made his first tour semifinal appearance at the U.S. Open last month, continued his recent rich vein of form in Tokyo, making 18 winners and dominating his Russian opponent with his swinging lefty serve as he closed out the final in 84 minutes.