"Heat is a major problem for me," Shelton discusses American conditions

Ben Shelton is competing in the ATP 500 in Washington this week. He won his match last night against Mackenzie McDonald with a score of 6-3, 6-4.

With temperatures regularly exceeding 30°C this week in the American capital, Shelton mentioned that acclimatization is necessary for him, as he struggles with the heat.

In an interview with the ATP, he said: "Heat is a major problem for me. During my time in Florida, I try to acclimatize as quickly as possible.

I only had a week, so I would immerse myself in the jacuzzi up to my neck for 15 minutes at a time, in sessions like that. Unless I have access to a sauna, then sauna sessions are very important.

But you have to get used to the heat and push yourself hard so you don’t overheat on the court… Obviously, on a 35°C day on a hard court, it feels like 46 or 49°C.

Playing on a hard court and being ready to compete requires a lot, aside from just your tennis game. That’s what makes the American summer so tough."

In the next round, Shelton will face Gabriel Diallo.