Ben Shelton defeated Frances Tiafoe in the Houston Open final but the respect between the two players was clear to see after the contest.
The final in Houston was an entertaining one. Despite Tiafoe taking the match to a third set, Shelton's power was simply too much for his compatriot in the end, with his serve in trademark devastating form.
Tiafoe is a very entertaining player on-court. He is a superb shot-maker, regularly leaving fans in awe with a brand of tennis that always attracts supporters, particularly in tournaments played in the United States.
However, the 26-year-old also inspires many people off-court with his story. Tiafoe recently discussed his childhood struggles while talking to Nick Kyrgios on an episode of his podcast, giving many interesting insights.
Tiafoe is also an inspiration and a superb role model to many people of colour. This was addressed by Shelton during the trophy ceremony after the Houston Open final, where he said some very kind things about Tiafoe.
"You've been such an inspiration to kids, people of colour in our sport, just an amazing representation. You've been that guy to always put on for us and always be selfless, thinking about others, kids younger than you. So thanks for everything that you do for our sport and people who look like you and me."
It is nice to see such healthy respect between the two players. Many top players coming from one country can lead to friendly competition between them but it is also abundantly clear that Shelton has looked up to Tiafoe, which has helped his own career.
Not long ago, there was some concern about the direction that US men's tennis was going in, with there seemingly being a lack of top players. But players like Shelton, Tiafoe, Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul have put those fears to rest.
All those men are yet to win their first Grand Slam title. It will be fascinating to observe in the coming years who could be the first of them to make that breakthrough.
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