Ben Shelton is back to his best, isn’t he? Following a disappointing start to the season, the American tennis sensation had a heart-thumping second-round win at the ASB Classic in Auckland. It is a much-needed boost for the 21-year-old, as he looks to impress at the Australian Open later this month. However, before that, he faces Spain’s Roberto Carballes Baena in the next round of the ATP 250 tournament. Let’s find out about his chances in this clash.

Shelton began the season going down fighting against Roman Safiullin at the Brisbane International in the first round. It was a shock defeat for him as he was one of the favorites to win the title there. Nonetheless, he has his task cut out when he takes on Carballes Baena next.

Ben Shelton vs Roberto Carballes Baena: Preview

The American star overcame his disappointment in Brisbane in the most glorious way. After being handed a bye in the first round of the ASB Classic, Ben Shelton defeated Fabian Marozsan of Hungary in the second round. In what was an emphatic victory, Shelton prevailed in straight sets 6-3, 6-4. He hardly broke a sweat, finishing the match in just 71 minutes.

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Like Shelton, his Spanish opponent has also had solid victories in the ongoing tournament. In the first round, Carballes Baena defeated compatriot Roberto Bautista Agut in straight sets 6-4, 6-3. Subsequently, he caused another upset, overcoming the challenge of the seventh seed, Sebastian Ofner 7-5, 6-3. He will look to continue his winning run when he faces Shelton next.

Shelton vs Carballes Baena: Head-to-Head

The two haven’t faced each other before and the clash at the ASB Classic in Auckland will be their maiden meeting. While Shelton emerged onto the scene last year, with some glorious victories, Carballes Baena is an experienced player, having turned pro in 2011. However, he doesn’t consistently feature in big tournaments, with his rank being outside of the top 50.

As a result, Shelton and Carballes Baena haven’t squared off against each other until this tournament.

Prediction: Shelton to prevail comfortably

Although the two haven’t faced each other yet, Shelton showed signs of his best tennis in the second round here. It is difficult to stop him when he plays such tennis and the American star is predicted to win in straight sets against Carballes Baena.

On the other hand, the latter will look to play a spoilsport for the American fans and give his best against Shelton. All-in-all, it promises to be an exciting time for tennis fans.

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