Alcaraz, who has already claimed titles at this year’s French Open and Wimbledon, demonstrated remarkable composure during critical moments, saving all five break points he encountered. He broke Shelton’s formidable left-handed serve once in each set to secure the win.

“First of all, I’m really happy to be part of Team Europe for the first time, and am trying to be the best player that I can be to help my team,” world No 3 Alcaraz said.

I played against a player that is really powerful, a really tough one, I’m really happy because I played a really solid match since the beginning.”

Team World’s Frances Tiafoe had earlier come back from a set down to defeat Daniil Medvedev and the two sides were tied at 4-4 going into the Saturday night session at Berlin’s Uber Arena.

Germany’s Alexander Zverev and American Taylor Fritz were next up to face each other before a doubles match concludes the day.