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In a stunning display of power and precision, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard made history at the 2024 Swiss Indoors Basel, capturing his first ATP 500 title in an emphatic victory over American Ben Shelton. The 21-year-old Frenchman, ranked No. 50 in the PIF ATP Rankings, defeated the sixth-seeded Shelton in straight sets, 6-4, 7-6(4), becoming the lowest-ranked player to win the Basel tournament since it achieved tour-level status in 1975. His relentless serving prowess—bolstered by a jaw-dropping 22 aces—saw him through the final without dropping serve.
Reflecting on the triumph, Mpetshi Perricard exuded pride: “It’s amazing to win a 500 tournament like this, especially after a tough few months. The victories are finally here.” The young Frenchman’s journey to Basel’s crown was not without struggle; he entered the tournament with eight losses in his last nine matches. Yet, his commanding performance throughout the week erased any doubts, his serve proving to be an indomitable weapon on Basel’s hard courts.
From the outset, his final against Shelton promised to be a battle of serves, with neither player having conceded a service game en route to the match. However, Mpetshi Perricard quickly shifted the momentum, capitalizing on a rare lapse from Shelton in the third game to secure a critical break. Shelton, despite his speed and resilience, could not break through, as Mpetshi Perricard’s serves consistently carved the court with explosive power. Even Shelton’s deftly blocked forehand return at a blistering 236 km/h couldn’t alter the outcome, as the Frenchman’s flawless serving shut down any opportunity for the American to recover.
In the second-set tie-break, Shelton’s single mishit—a forehand volley that drifted wide at a crucial 4-4—gave Mpetshi Perricard the edge he needed. Two more aces sealed the match and an 87-minute victory for the towering Frenchman, who credited his serve and baseline aggression for the triumph.
This win marks a significant milestone in Mpetshi Perricard’s rapid ascent. Rising to a career-high World No. 31, he has fulfilled his 2024 goals by winning both an ATP 250 and ATP 500 title. “The work paid off,” he shared, beaming with pride. His rise from World No. 205 at the beginning of the year reflects not only his talent but his relentless commitment to honing his craft.
