Shelton then beat Roberto Bautista-Agut in straight sets to set up a tantalising third-round match against Tiafoe, who addressed the prospect of the showdown after his match.

“Obviously, you know, he’s very much like me in how excited and energetic he is on the court and has such a big game and big shots and serves big and gets the crowd going,” Tiafoe said.

“You know, he’s 20, 21 years old. He’s young, funny, cracks jokes. Just about as immature as I am (smiling). We always have fun joking around and cracking jokes, for sure.”

After having had a year to analyze his loss to Shelton, Tiafoe believes his fellow American’s most deadly asset is his serve. “He’s got one of the better serves on the tour, no question,” he continued. “Especially a lefty, he hits all the spots, changes pace quite well. It’s going to be tough but I’m super excited.”

When Tiafoe faced Shelton in 2023 at the U.S. Open, the former lost to the latter in four sets. Speaking after his own win, Shelton shared what was going through his head as he advanced to the third round to face Tiafoe.

“I thought I moved extremely well,” Shelton said, according to ATP Tour. “I served well and hit my forehand well and didn’t get broken today and was clutch at the big moments when I needed to be. I am happy with where my game is at.”

With his place in the third-round set, the young American star is relishing the opportunity to play against Tiafoe once again. “I am really looking forward to it,” he continued. “We had a great battle in the quarters last year and I am sure it will be another popcorn match.”

With the matchup set, the Maryland-born star shared he had been game-planning for his rematch with Shelton. In particular, Tiafoe made it a focus to return to the semis after his disappointing loss to his fellow American.

“No, 100%. 100%. Obviously I wanted to get back-to-back semis,” he added. “I wanted to do well. Obviously, attention shifts. That wasn’t easy. That wasn’t something I was pleased about by any means. Then I had, you know, and then I had bad season after that to follow it.

“Again, stuff you definitely learn from. You know, I mean, I think everything that comes, you know, in your career, all the highs and lows, only sets you up for better moments ahead. I’m super excited for the match, and any opportunity to do it again. So, yeah.”

Of note, the two met in the final of the Houston Open, with Shelton coming out on top. After that matchup, the 21-year-old posted a message for his opponent.

He wrote: “Great week Foe. Great job to you and your team. I know this one stings, sorry you didn’t go back-to-back titles, but you’re that type of player who can go back to back. I want to see you do it again this year, hopefully in Stuttgart.”