Musetti outplays Shelton to seal semi-final spot at UTS Frankfurt

Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti produced something of a masterclass as he outplayed American Ben Shelton 16-11, 17-9, 19-10 to book his place in the semi-finals of UTS Frankfurt.

The Illusionist – in his first ever UTS event – was too strong for The Mountain, dominating each quarter with superb play and outstanding defence as he sealed a second straight 3-0 victory.

“Today was a really nice performance,” Musetti said. “I think I’m really enjoying the format. First set was not easy to find the right place to return because Ben’s serve is one of the best in the world. I think I managed well to win that quarter, that gave me a lot confidence and then I was playing better and better. Definitely happy to be in the semis.”

Everything Shelton tried was matched and bettered by Musetti, who came up with the shot of the match, if not the whole event so far, when he ended a stunning rally with an incredible forehand around the net for a winner midway through the first quarter. “It was one of the best shots I ever played,” Musetti said.

No matter what Shelton did, Musetti had the answer and Shelton was left frustrated, throwing his racket at times when the Italian got yet another ball into play. As he was in his first match on Friday, he was successful with his bonus card – next point counts for three – in each quarter.

Both Musetti and Shelton have to win title in Frankfurt to qualify for the UTS Grand Final in London.

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