Ben Shelton Rust Busts in Auckland Opener

Eighth-ranked Ben Shelton secured a 7-5, 6-4 victory over Francisco Comesana in his 2026 debut at the ATP Tour event in Auckland, New Zealand. Despite signs of inactivity, Shelton overcame a set point to clinch the match, supported courtside by his father and partner.

Ben Shelton, the eighth-ranked tennis player, marked his 2026 debut with a hard-fought 7-5, 6-4 win against Francisco Comesana at the ATP Tour event in Auckland, New Zealand on Wednesday.

Shelton, who had a bye in the opening round of the ATP 250 tournament, perservered through a set point against the 68th-ranked Argentine, thanks to strong support from his coach and father, Brian Shelton, and U.S. soccer star Trinity Rodman.

The match served as a preparatory ground for Shelton as he readies for the upcoming Australian Open, showcasing tenacity as he overcame early challenges to secure victory in a tightly-contested match.