NEW YORK: Sixth seed Ben Shelton was forced to retire from his U.S. Open third-round clash against France’s Adrian Mannarino on Friday, shortly before 17th seed Frances Tiafoe also bowed out - delivering a major blow to American hopes of ending a 22-year drought for a men’s Grand Slam title.
Shelton appeared to struggle with a left shoulder issue, visibly wincing after a forehand early in the fourth set on Louis Armstrong Stadium. He continued to clutch at the area while getting ready to return serve in the second game, ultimately unable to continue.
"I just did something to my shoulder I don't know what it is. I'm in a lot of pain, " Shelton said to his father and coach, Bryan Shelton.
Shelton later told his father it was the “worst pain” he had ever experienced, before consulting the physio again. Despite the discomfort, he managed to hold his own against the crafty left-hander Mannarino, who delivered flashes of brilliance throughout the match.
Touted as a potential contender to end the long American men’s title drought at Flushing Meadows - dating back to Andy Roddick’s 2003 triumph - Shelton looked visibly distraught during the changeover, burying his face in his towel as emotions took over. Moments later, he retired from the match, prompting audible gasps from the stunned home crowd.
"When he started having pain, he was leading in the match, " said Mannarino, who rallied from a set down to draw level at 3-6 6-3 4-6 6-4 when the match was abandoned.