U.S. Open Opens With Strong American Depth as Shelton, Fritz Win

The U.S. Open opened its men’s singles program on Sunday with a clear message from the American contingent: the home team is in a strong position as the tournament gets underway. Ben Shelton, the No. 6 seed, rolled past Peru’s Ignacio Buse in straight sets at Arthur Ashe Stadium, while Taylor Fritz, the No. 4 seed and last year’s runner-up, followed with a 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 victory over Emilio Nava at Louis Armstrong Stadium. The day underscored a conspicuous surge of American depth, with 23 U.S. men in the field—the most since 1997.

Shelton’s victory was efficient and emphatic, lasting just over two hours. He converted seven of 14 break points and saved all five break opportunities he faced, including two chances in the opening set as he closed it out 6-3. The left-handed serve carried him through, and he produced more than twice as many winners as his opponent. After the win, Shelton spoke warmly of Flushing Meadows, calling it his favorite place to play and describing the city’s premier court as a home court in spirit. “This is the best court in tennis. It’s my favorite place to play, the favorite tournament,” he said, adding that there are nerves on opening day but that he felt...