Ben Shelton Edges Closer to Tennis Elite Despite French Open Exit

World number 13 Ben Shelton is optimistic about his improving performance, despite his recent loss to defending French Open champion Carlos Alcaraz in the tournament's fourth round.

Shelton, 22, managed to take a set away from the world number two, marking a personal best against the Spanish tennis star. He expressed confidence in areas where he put up a stronger fight, especially during baseline exchanges and handling open-stance backhands.

With previous losses to Alcaraz and a recent semi-final defeat by world number one Jannik Sinner at the Australian Open, Shelton believes he's closing the performance gap with top-tier players. As one of eight Americans making the fourth round in Paris, Shelton's prospects look promising, aiming for more consistent Grand Slam performances.

(With inputs from agencies.)