Ahead of His Enthralling Novak Djokovic Contest, Ben Shelton Given Serious Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal Wish by Father Turned Coach

The 20-year-old American tennis player Ben Shelton is making giant strides in the sport as he continues his journey in the US Open. Being one of the less experienced players in the tournament and still being able to make it to the semi-finals surely is a big deal for him.

Owing to the same, his father, the former world No. 55, Bryan Shelton shared words of pride for his son during an interview. He spoke proudly about the performance his son has given so far and even compared him to some of the greatest players in the world who may set examples for him.

Ben Shelton’s father praises him before his match with Novak Djokovic

Bryan Shelton is not only Ben’s father but also his coach. He recently talked about how his performance has been in the US Open and how it has made him and his wife proud of Ben.

Talking about it to ATP Tour, he said, “Ben’s mom and I, [are] super proud that he’s just handling himself so well. First off the court and then on the court. Our hope for him was that he would just continue to grow as a person and as a player out here on the Tour over the last year, and I think he’s done that.”

Not just that, Bryan also mentioned how he wants Ben to follow in the footsteps of the Big 3. He said, “I think he’s got amazing examples over this last 20-year stretch with Roger and Rafa and Novak. That’s a good example for him to follow.”

Along with mentioning his son in the same breath as the three all-time greats in tennis, Bryan also mentioned how his son might have traits like the golf legend Tiger Woods.

Bryan Shelton draws a comparison between Tiger Woods and his son

In the same conversation, Bryan mentioned about how Tiger Woods has an on-and-off switch. When he is on the court playing golf, he switches on his personality where he presents his best form. And when he is done, he turns himself off and goes back to his routine.

He feels that Ben, his son, also has this on and off switch where he is able to relax and be himself. And then when it is time to play, he becomes focused and gives his best.

Given Ben’s performance this year, we can safely say that he certainly has a great future waiting for him. His next match against Novak will say a lot about him and his fans surely can’t hold their excitement any longer for that.

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