Being blessed with a supporting family is the ultimate gift. No one knows this better than America’s rising star, Ben Shelton. He recently attained an incredible feat by winning the Japan Open in straight sets of 7-5 6-1 against Aslan Karatsev. After his glorious victory, Shelton dedicated a few words to appreciate his family’s support. However, his main focus was on his mother, Lisa Shelton.
Shelton’s victory at the Japan Open is quite special not only for him but for his close ones as well as the fans. It is his first ATP title, and he was well-deserving of this win. He got emotional while addressing his parents after the match.
Ben Shelton pays an endearing tribute to his mother’s support
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Shelton’s first title was due for quite some time now. However, he was determined to reach this position despite all his losses. Looking at his journey, it is quite evident how much his parents supported the 21-year-old.
Shelton, while making his speech, thanked many people who supported him throughout his journey. However, he had to take a moment to recognize and appreciate his family. He said: “I also want to thank my family back home who I know have been watching on TV all week. No matter what time of night it was.”
This kind of love is definitely why Shelton is climbing the success ladder so quickly. He then went on to thank his mom, wh0 was up every night he played a match, without bothering about how late it was. In his words: “Especially my mom, I know she’s watching. I know she hasn’t missed a match. No matter if it was 3:30 in the morning or 12 o’clock at night.”
Ben Shelton thanks his mom & family after winning his 1st career title:
“I also want to thank my family back home who I know have been watching on TV all week. No matter what time of night it was. Especially my mom, I know she’s watching. I know she hasn’t missed a match. No… pic.twitter.com/yhHz9Fy1F4
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) October 22, 2023
It is important to highlight how it wasn’t just his mom but also his dad. Shelton is lucky enough to have the support of both his parents. The young champ is definitely up for a stunning career with a support system like this.
Shelton’s dad left his job to coach his son
As soon as he won the match, Shelton immediately left the court. He went to the stands so he could give a warm and long hug to his dad, who was present with him throughout the tour.
Ben Shelton immediately walks over to hug his dad and his team after winning his 1st ATP title in Tokyo.
His dad made the decision to leave his job as a college coach to join Ben on tour this year.
The decision paid off.
Unforgettable moment. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/4JIZK7kJxU
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) October 22, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
It is quite surprising to know how much Mr. Bryan Shelton compromised to be with his son. Mr. Shelton is a former tennis player himself and he inspired Ben to opt professional tennis as his career. He had to resign from his job as a college coach to accompany the young star.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
It is amazing to see how much love and respect Shelton has for his family. The support he gets from them is equally incredible. This was the first of many ATP titles to come in his bright career.