Shelton in straight sets. Count on it!
People who know, are expecting Big Ben Shelton to serve up a hearty can of "game over" to Mariano Navone come their Round of 64 match at the Mutua Madrid Open. Shelton, flaunting his 12th seed status, has been delivering like a mailman in holiday season, recording steady results against names like Cerundolo F. and Darderi L., dispatching them with the precision of a neurosurgeon.
Now, let's ruminate on Navone! Though he has played excellent tennis with wins over Mpetshi Perricard G. and Auger-Aliassime F., his recent volatility on the court is still not endearing. This man has seen both sides of the love more frequently than a slalom skier.
And here's a fun fact for all the history lovers sitting in the bleachers - every time Shelton and Navone have met for a tête-à-tête across the net, Shelton has turned that meeting into a monologue. With Shelton holding a 2-0 history advantage, Navone might find himself up creek without a racket!
So here it is, folks! End of the guessing game, the crystal ball says -
Albert’s Prediction: Shelton in straight sets. Count on it!