Birthday boy Alexander Zverev celebrates in style with third Munich Open title as Ben Shelton charge quelled

Alexander Zverev has celebrated his 28th birthday in style with a hat-trick of Munich Open titles. It is a record equalling third title as he put Ben Shelton to the sword 6-2, 6-4.

Zverev was imperious on serve throughout and did not face a single break point as he seals a 24th career title, one away from 25.

Having won back-to-back titles in Munich during 2017-2018, it was a long wait until the next but he has equalled compatriot Philipp Kohlschreiber's tally of three titles. He also ensured that the tournament will conclude as its first ATP 500 outing with a German winner.

It also reverses what has been a poor season so far with Zverev struggling with the weight of expectation which was handed to him when Jannik Sinner was banned in February. He won't return until at least Rome in a few weeks time.

Zverev was likely to be World Number One for that but spurned his chance and has been open about that. But starting the clay court season has been about turning the corner and he did just that over the past week.

Shelton who himself made history by becoming the first American since Andre Agassi back in 2002 to reach a clay court final was nervy throughout the tie and mostly the first set where he struggled to hold serve.

Zverev remained calm and collected and showed his wealth of experience to get over the line superbly. “It’s extremely special, I always love winning tournaments in Germany,” said Zverev. “It’s probably the most special thing I can do. It’s definitely a great birthday present, let’s put it that way.”

“I definitely knew I had to play my best tennis today, Ben has been playing extremely well this week,” added Zverev. “The conditions suit him extremely well, it’s very hot and very fast. They suit me as well, to be fair. I enjoyed my birthday so far.”