Ben Shelton hopes BMW Open scheduling aligns to see Bayern Munich face Real Madrid

The 2026 BMW Open by Bitpanda got underway over the weekend under sunny skies at the MTTC Iphitos in Munich, setting the stage for a thrilling week of top-level tennis. As the main draw was revealed, one of the standout names returning to the Bavarian capital is Ben Shelton, last year’s finalist and the tournament’s No. 2 seed.

The 23-year-old American carries both confidence and unfinished business after his impressive run to the final in 2025, where he finished runner-up to home favorite Alexander Zverev.

“I am really happy to be back,” Shelton said ahead of his opening three-set win Monday over friend Emilio Nava. “For me the most memorable part of last year’s tournament was that I should have lost in the first round. We had a lot of tight matches. It was a crazy tournament run last year and to end up in the final was pretty cool. Hopefully, I can have another great run this week.”

A big fan of Munich

Munich clearly left a lasting impression on Shelton, not only for his on-court success but also for the atmosphere around the event.

“I like playing here—not that much when it’s cold—but this is a great tournament. I like the conditions,” the Atlanta native said. “They have made so many improvements over the last 12 months. The tournament is very well attended, with a lot of enthusiastic fans, pretty much more than at any other ATP 500 event. The courts are always packed—even during the qualifying. I enjoy the atmosphere.”

Conditions in Munich can vary significantly, but Shelton feels well prepared to handle the challenges.

“I played in all kinds of conditions here. I played when it was cool and when it was warm. I have some experience with that. Obviously, the court is not as bouncy when it is cool but there are just little adjustments you have to make.”

Off the court, the American also embraced the city’s sporting culture, even attending a football match during his stay.

“There are a lot of sports fans in the city. We went to a Bayern Munich football game last year, which was a lot of fun. I want to try to do it on Wednesday as well when they have their second leg of the Champions League quarterfinal. I hope it works out.”

I still need much more time to spend on clay to be at the highest level, especially with movement. This is the most important aspect on clay. Ben Shelton

Ready to start the European clay-court swing

After dealing with an injury setback at last year’s US Open, Shelton now arrives in Munich fully fit and ready to compete.

“I am at 100 percent. There are no aftereffects. I am just enjoying being healthy and playing tennis,” the world No. 8 stated.

Back on clay, Shelton continues to refine his game on the surface, focusing particularly on movement and adaptability.

“There are still many things for me to continue to get better. I still need much more time to spend on clay to be at the highest level, especially with movement. This is the most important aspect on clay. Here in Munich and Madrid you play with altitude and the balls bounce pretty high. You can win a lot of points with your serve, having the chance to chase to the net. Playing an offensive game style is important in these conditions.”

Chasing Alcaraz and Sinner

As one of the top players on tour, Shelton embraces the challenge of chasing the sport’s leading names of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.

“It’s an amazing challenge. A few years ago, I would never have thought that I would be a Top 10 player in the world with a career-high No. 5. It’s always great for me to have people out in front, who are doing better than me to be able to chase after something. It motivates me every day. I am looking forward to continuing to improve my game and catch up with those guys.”

Looking ahead to the week in Munich, Shelton knows what it might take to go one step further than last year.

“I guess to beat Sascha,” he said with a laugh.” There are so many things I watched myself last year what I did well but also so many things I didn’t do well. For me it is important not to make the same mistakes as I did last year. I think that I am a better player overall from last year. More complete and confident on this surface.”