Ben Shelton: In a thrilling finale at the 2024 Swiss Indoors, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard secured his first ATP 500 title, defeating Ben Shelton in a highly anticipated match that showcased their exceptional serving skills. After the match, Shelton humorously remarked, “I almost killed myself trying to return your serve,” highlighting the formidable challenge posed by Perricard’s powerful delivery.

The final, held on October 27, was marked by intense rallies and explosive serves. Perricard, known for his big serving, unleashed a remarkable 236 km/h serve during the match, while Shelton showcased his return skills by managing to hit back some of Perricard’s fastest serves. Despite the pressure, Perricard broke Shelton in the third game of the first set, which allowed him to clinch it 6-4. The second set continued to captivate fans, with both players displaying resilience and skill, ultimately leading to a tiebreaker where Perricard emerged victorious with a 7-6(4) scoreline.

In his post-match speech, Shelton praised his opponent, acknowledging the significant improvement in Perricard’s game. “First of all, I wanna congratulate Gio on a great match today. So many parts of your game have improved, and you’re such a great young talent,” he said, emphasizing Perricard’s journey from outside the top 200 to a debut ranking of World No. 31.

Perricard, reflecting on his triumph, noted the importance of his serve as a key weapon throughout the tournament. “On this surface, my serve is a good weapon for me, but I also try to be aggressive from the baseline,” he explained. His victory not only marks a significant milestone in his career but also showcases his potential in the world of tennis.

This match serves as a testament to the rising talents in the ATP circuit and promises an exciting future for both players. As they continue to develop their skills and compete at the highest level, tennis fans around the world are sure to keep a close eye on their careers.