Chilean Tabilo Reaches Washington Semis After Epic Comeback and 'Gran Willy' Shot

Chilean tennis player Alejandro Tabilo achieved a significant comeback victory against American Ben Shelton, the tournament's second seed, in the quarterfinals of the ATP 500 Washington. Tabilo won the match 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 in two hours and 24 minutes, marking a historic achievement for Chilean tennis. It has been 17 years since a player from Chile last reached the semifinals of this hard-court tournament in the United States.

Tabilo will now face Spain's Rafael Jódar in the semifinals. The match was hard-fought, with both players exchanging breaks in the first set before Shelton secured it 6-4. Tabilo responded by taking the second set 7-5. The decisive third set saw Tabilo break back immediately after Shelton gained an advantage, ultimately sealing the win when Shelton faltered on serve at 4-5.

A highlight of Tabilo's comeback was an unforgettable "Gran Willy" shot, where he hit the ball between his legs while scrambling deep on the court. The shot, which landed inches from the line, forced Shelton into an awkward return, allowing Tabilo to regain control and win the point. This spectacular play earned a standing ovation and left Shelton visibly surprised.

The last Chilean to reach the semifinals in Washington was Fernando González in 2009. Tabilo, currently ranked 26th in the live rankings, is aiming to continue his strong performance. In the other semifinal, American Brandon Nakashima will play Taylor Fritz.