Shelton battles back to advance at US Open despite first-set stumble

Shelton initially struggled against the Dutch player, dropping the opening set 1-6 in a disappointing start at Flushing Meadows. However, the American regrouped decisively, claiming the next three sets with increasing control to secure a 1-6 6-1 7-6(3) 6-2 victory in the first-round clash.

The 21-year-old seeded player showed resilience typical of top competitors at the Grand Slam level, bouncing back from the early setback to establish dominance in subsequent sets. His improved serving and court positioning in the second set marked a clear turning point, as Shelton broke through Griekspoor's resistance with a convincing 6-1 scoreline.

The tiebreak in the third set proved decisive, with Shelton winning 7-3 to move within one set of victory. He then completed the comeback with a commanding fourth set, setting up a second-round encounter and justifying his seeding at the year's final Grand Slam tournament.

Shelton's comeback performance demonstrated the mental fortitude required at major tournaments, where the ability to adjust and recover from early difficulties often determines progression through the draw.