Laver Cup 2023: Ben Shelton beats Arthur Fils, hails ‘unmatched’ John McEnroe as Team World take first point

Team World’s Ben Shelton paid tribute to his captain John McEnroe after getting the Laver Cup up and running with a straight-sets victory over Team Europe’s Arthur Fils.

The 2023 edition of the competition began on Friday in Vancouver with Team World seeking to retain the trophy after beating Team Europe 13-8 in London last year, which secured their first victory at the fifth attempt.

McEnroe’s team earned the first point in comfortable fashion, as Shelton – with Roger Federer watching on – recorded a 7-6(4) 6-1 win over fellow debutant Fils.

Fils allowed a 4-1 lead in the tie-breaker slip through his grasp as Shelton won six straight points to take the first set. He celebrated with his captain, shouting “Come on, Johnny!” towards his compatriot.

When a fired-up Shelton then finally got the break in the second set, there was no way back for the French No. 3, who allowed too many unforced errors to creep in.

It was a baptism of fire for the 19-year-old Fils, who is the youngest male player in the top 100 on tour. He was a late replacement for Stefanos Tsitsipas following the Greek’s injury withdrawal.

“Really happy to see a red stadium right now,” said a delighted Shelton, who was making his first appearance since losing to Novak Djokovic in the US Open semi-final.

“Yeah, I think the crowd really got me going in Canada. I know it’s not the US but thanks for the World support,” the American continued.

“I really wanted to be able to set the tone with my energy for Team World today and I think it went pretty well, so I’m excited to get on the bench and cheer on these guys for the rest of the day.”

Shelton, the world. No 19, was keen to pay tribute to seven-time Grand Slam winner McEnroe. Asked how it feels to be working with the tennis legend, the 20-year-old said: “Yeah it’s been amazing. Just a few key pieces of advice that I’ve picked up on over the last few days.

“It’s been great to be around him, and his energy is unmatched, you know. Having him as a captain in a team event is amazing. He definitely matches my energy out here on the court and I’m happy to be playing for him and Team World.”

Later on Friday, Team World’s Francisco Cerundolo will meet Team Europe’s Alejandro Davidovich Fokina before Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime takes on Gael Monfils.

Americans Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe play Fils and Andrey Rublev in the doubles, the final match of day one.