Peruvian Qualifier Ignacio Buse Makes Grand Slam Debut in US Open Opener

NEW YORK (August 24, 2025) - Ignacio Buse, a 21-year-old from Peru, made his Grand Slam debut today. He faced world No. 6 Ben Shelton in the first round of the US Open at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Buse, who reached a career-high rank of No. 133 in the ATP Top 150 this season, secured his place in the Flushing Meadows main draw. He did this by beating Lukas Neumayer, Rei Sakamoto, and Kimmer Coppejans in three qualifying rounds. He comes to New York after winning his first ATP Challenger title in Heilbronn. He also made the semifinals in Gstaad. So far this season, he has a 56.5 percent win rate over 46 matches.

““This is what I’ve been working for,” Buse said after warming up on Ashe. ““I have nothing to lose - I’ll play each point with full focus and enjoy the moment.” His grandfather, Alex Olmedo, a Wimbledon champion, and his uncle, chef Gastón Acurio, both offered support before today’s match.

Shelton, a past NCAA champion and 2025 Canadian Open winner, has a clear advantage. The American is now ranked sixth in the world. He reached this career-high ATP standing after winning the Masters 1000 in Toronto and making it to the quarterfinals in Cincinnati.

This clash is the first match between Shelton and Buse. They trained briefly together during college recruitment visits. Their history goes back to the University of Florida courts in 2022. Play began at 16:00 UTC under clear skies, with fans flocking to support Buse’s maiden Grand Slam appearance. Ceremony aside, Buse insists his mindset remains unchanged.

““It’s just another match,” he noted. ““I trust my game and will focus point-by-point.”

**Match Details** - **Date:** August 24, 2025 - **Event:** US Open, Round of 128 - **Venue:** Arthur Ashe Stadium, Flushing Meadows, New York - **Start Time:** 16:00 UTC

IGNACIO BUSE Age: 21 (born March 25, 2004) Nationality: Peru Peak ranking: No. 133 (July 2025) Season record: 26–20 (56.5% wins) Career earnings: $282,522

BEN SHELTON Age: 21 (born October 9, 2003) - **Nationality:** USA - **Current Ranking:** No. 6 - **Season Highlights:** - Won ATP Masters 1000 (Toronto) - Quarterfinalist in Cincinnati

Coverage continues live on ESPN and the official US Open app.

Sources: - Match schedule and head-to-head preview, Sofascore - Season summary and career milestones, EssentiallySports - Player feature on collegiate connection, ATP Tour - Match preview and betting odds, ProFootballNetwork