Ben Shelton’s Fearsome ‘Mentality’ Revealed by Former ATP Icon in an Insightful Admission -’Measuring Himself Against Players at the Highest Level Rather Than..’

Ben Shelton turned a professional with the ATP in 2022 and has already risen to the top 20 by the end of the 2023 season. The 21-year-old American star has managed to encapsulate the tennis world with his performances. His efforts have also earned the recognition of a former South African player, who lauds his mentality while witnessing his rise. 

As the 2004 Washington Open winner praises Shelton, the US Open semifinalist has said that he does not set goals with clear distinctions as he continues to rise. His words corroborated the claims of the strong mentality he possesses.

Former ATP star lauds Ben Shelton for his mentality

Robbie Koenig is a former South African player who now works as a commentator and an analyst. He appeared in the most recent edition of the ‘First Serve’ podcast. He talked to host Brett Philips about the Davis Cup finals and many more aspects of tennis. The two also discussed up-and-coming talents, one of which was Ben Shelton. Koenig is smitten by Shelton as he praises his mentality.

He said, “Ben’s been front and center. In I remember when he got Challenger wildcards. In fact, I remember last year him getting a wild card into the US Open. So you know, that kind of mentality. Straight away. He’s measuring himself against players at the highest level, rather than measuring himself against players at the lowest level.”

The South African analyst has been taken by the 21-year-old American star as he continues to climb the ATP ladder. As he praises his mentality of measuring himself against the top competition, Shelton shows why Koenig is right on the money. 

Shelton’s goals when it comes to ranks

Before he showed his talent in the US Open, Shelton was steadily focused on improving his play style. Eventually, he improved immensely and has gone on to the final stages of many tournaments. However, he has not set a particular goal in his mind when it comes to ranking. He told the Shanghai Press that he doesn’t set an idea for a ranking because it ends up becoming a mental ceiling for him.

Read More: ‘Couldn’t Be Sweeter’ – Elation Grips Ben Shelton as He Comes Out on Top After ‘Tough’ Japan Open Battle to Mark a Major Milestone

He further said that he doesn’t know what ranking he wants to end up on, and his only goal at the moment is showing up to tournaments and winning. Shelton’s unwavering mindset has been instrumental in his rapid advancement over the past few months. If he can continue his top-level performance, we will see him play in the ATP Finals next year.

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