Rising star Ben Shelton is making impressive strides this season! Despite facing some ups and downs, the American player reached a career-high ranking of No. 13 in August. With two ATP titles under his belt from his win at the 2023 Japan Open and the ATP Houston tournament this year. However, due to recent inconsistencies and tough losses, like his battle against Jannik Sinner at the Shanghai Masters, he’s currently placed in the 23rd position in the rankings. But don’t count him out—his spirits are high! And he’s not shying away from expressing it.

Currently competing at the Swiss Indoors, Shelton has made it to the quarterfinals after a thrilling victory over Stan Wawrinka. The match had fans on the edge of their seats! Shelton clinched the win in a hard-fought battle, finishing with a score of 7-6(2), 7-5. It was breathtaking to watch him display his powerful serve against Wawrinka, who, at 39, became the oldest player to win a match in Basel.

In his post-match interview, Shelton reflected on their locker room banter before the match, saying, “He’s been on tour as much as I’ve lived!” The 22-year-old American showed great sportsmanship, even while taking down an icon who started his career around the time Shelton was born. Stan Wawrinka is a Swiss tennis legend with a dazzling resume. Boasting three Grand Slam titles and a pivotal role in securing Switzerland’s first Davis Cup victory in 2014. Not to mention, an Olympic gold medal and an ATP Masters 1000 title to his name.

When asked about the loud fan service for Wawrinka, Ben Shelton smiled and acknowledged the atmosphere. He said, “I had to smile at times today because obviously it’s against me, but it’s so cool to see a country and tournament get behind a guy like that who’s been such an icon.” Expressing his admiration for Wawrinka’s incredible contributions to tennis, especially in Switzerland.

While he might not envision himself playing at 39, Shelton respects Wawrinka’s resilience. He concluded his statement with a heartfelt “Shout out to Stan!” What a touching act of comradery indeed. But while he’s preparing for his next match against Andrey Rublev at the quarterfinals, Shelton’s not too excited about possibly facing the King of Clay at the Davis Cup this year!

Ben reveals his anxieties about facing Rafael Nadal in Spain

On October 20th, the UTS Tour’s official Instagram page dropped a fun video featuring Ben Shelton and Gael Monfils as they reminisced about their encounter with the legendary Rafael Nadal during the Davis Cup. In a lighthearted moment, Shelton wondered aloud, “Will Rafa play singles?” He jokingly added, “Are they going to make him retire in doubles?” Classic!

Monfils chimed in with his trademark enthusiasm, saying, “Rafa is Rafa, you know. If he feels ready, they will make him play. 100%.” Shelton then asked, “It’s his choice, right?” To which Monfils confidently replied, “He’ll be a beast.” While the conversation touched on the serious topic of Nadal’s potential retirement, Shelton couldn’t help but express his nerves about possibly facing him in the Davis Cup: “If it’s our match and he ends up playing against me, I’m gonna be so tight! So tight! This is my nightmare!”

The banter continued as Shelton shared his mixed feelings about the prospect of playing Nadal on Spanish soil. “I am praying that it happens. I am praying it doesn’t happen,” he admitted. This will be Ben’s first time at the Davis Cup, which explains his nervousness. Especially when it’s on the occasion of Rafa’s final match! With excitement and anxiety bubbling over, it’s clear that this is going to be a dream and a daunting challenge for the young American. What are your thoughts on this situation? Let us know below!