US Open Picks: Ben Shelton vs. Pablo Carreno Busta & Best Bets (Aug 27)

The second round at the US Open gets underway on Aug 27, with some of the biggest names across the ATP and WTA Tours in action. American star Ben Shelton will be aiming to avoid a shock departure in the early rounds in the final match at Louis Armstrong Stadium when he takes on Pablo Carreño Busta. Find our picks and best bets for day four of the Grand Slam here.

Ben Shelton vs. Pablo Busta Overview

Odds

Ben Shelton vs. Pablo Busta Head-to-Head Record

A second meeting between Shelton and Busta is set for Wednesday. It is the second time that the stars have met this season, with the American coming through against the Spaniard in four sets at the Australian Open at the start of 2025.

Match Preview

Ben Shelton will be one of the leading American chances at the US Open this summer, as the world number six bids to reach a first Grand Slam final. His previous best showing at the US Open came in 2023 when reaching the semi-final stage.

Shelton was dominant in the opening round of the Slam on Sunday, as he easily overcame Ignacio Buse in straight sets. The American registered five aces, and won an impressive 78% of the points on first serve. Overall, Shelton recorded 100 winners, and his aggression makes him a standout chance on Wednesday.

Pablo Carreno Busta holds the experience advantage this week. He previously sat in a career-best tenth in the world rankings, but has dropped outside of the world’s top 50 this calendar year. Despite that, he deserves respect after twice reaching the final four at the US Open.

Busta was assured in the opening round of the Slam, as he overcame compatriot Pablo Llamas Ruiz in straight sets. He was efficient on his first and second serves, and he registered an impressive 119 winners. However, this is a step up in opposition.

Ben Shelton vs. Pablo Busta Picks

Busta is a fairly big price considering his excellent record at the US Open. But, there is a sense that his career is going backwards, while Shelton is the improving star. Due to that reason, we expect the American to come through this challenge and book his spot in the third round.

US Open Picks for Day Four