Ben Shelton had finally lifted his first title on clay! After playing in an all-American Houston final against Frances Tiafoe, he achieved one of the biggest wins to date. Witnessing the way he performed on the court, the 21-year-old has been receiving a lot of love from the tennis world. A former American tennis pro shared a strong statement after witnessing his growth on the court.

Jimmy Arias offered more than just his impression of the American tennis player’s potential situation in a few months. However, he also placed value on Shelton’s performance and the outcome that would follow from the 16th-ranked tennis player.

After lifting his second ATP title and achieving the feat after Andy Roddick, Shelton left everyone surprised at the same time. Subsequently, the 59-year-old former American tennis player made a strong prediction about what he was expecting from Shelton in the upcoming few months, especially until the US Open. He stated, “I’d be shocked if he is not in the top 10 by the US Open.”

Looking at the way last year he made it to the semi-final round of the last Grand Slam tournament, it will be interesting to see what this year’s event and outcome look like, and especially whether he can stand on Arias’ words while making a place for himself in the top 10.

The 21-year-old has reached the highest ranking of 14th, but now that he has won the ATP title and is looking into his past performances of the year, his fans might be wishing the same to happen. Besides, winning this title was also a personal milestone for the young American tennis sensation, as he was following in his father’s footsteps to win this title just like his father did a decade ago when he was born.

Shelton thanks his father for being a ‘trailblazer’ 

After becoming the youngest champion at the tournament since the 19-year-old, Roddick did back in 2002, in a post-match press conference, he also shared his admiration for his father, who had won that tournament in the past, and appreciated his support while also sharing his gratitude for the same.

He said, “My dad won this tournament in 1992; he had that one up on me and I had to get one back on him today. Thanks for being a trailblazer showing me the way and I appreciate everyone out there who’s watching me.” His father is a part of his coaching team and is always seen supporting his son, no matter what the outcome of the matches turns out to be.

Nevertheless, what are your thoughts on Shelton’s victory? Do let us know in the comment section below.

READ MORE – ATP Houston Open: Ben Shelton Sheds Insights on Father-Son Trash Talk as He Stands One Step Away From Emulating His Title Triumph