Getting to the ATP finals is as tough as winning the finals, if not more. In a recent episode of the Tennis Podcast, British commentator Catherine Whitaker speculates what could be Ben Shelton‘s next big move. Shelton has shocked the world with his amazing win at the Japan Open. Whitaker justifies her educated guess by naming a bunch of athletes and how Shelton fits in her theory.
The ATP finals event is not far from us. Starting on the 12th of November, this event will go on for a whole week and finally end on the 19th of November. So how does the 21-year-old champ fit into this?
Ben Shelton wants to enter the Finals
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Whitaker touched on many topics in this episode. Although her guess about what might be going on Shelton’s mind became the highlight. Shelton has become the talk of the town after winning his first ATP title.
Whitaker starts her argument by stating facts. She says, “Look, only 8 qualify and Ben Shelton is in 14th position.” Before moving forward, she makes sure to clarify that Shelton is the youngest player on the roster. Whitaker even quoted Roberts’ earlier statement to solidify her assumptions. She said: “In the eloquent words of Matt Roberts. People are shi**ing the bed left, right and center in this race.” And there are two events lined up before the finals for him to take the spot. In her words: “There are still a lot of points on offer before the race is decided there is Vienna, which is a 500 and there is Paris, which is a 1000.”
Whitaker then mentioned how Rublev and Tsitsipas are already making the cut in addition to Zverev. However, Shelton is the perfect candidate to fulfill the criteria for the 8th spot. She finally said: “If you’re in Ben Shelton’s mind right now. You’re thinking about a race. Right? And you’re thinking about Turin.” She subtly addressed how Shelton might want the same thing.
READ MORE: Future Goals Laid Bare by Ben Shelton as He Moves From Strength to Strength
The remainder of 2023 for Ben Shelton
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Shelton started this season at a spot of number 96 in the whole world. It is quite incredible how he covered a huge gap and was ranked number 15th on Monday. His impeccable form and growing popularity is already making the young champ a fan-favorite.
Shelton is all set to face the World’s No.4, Jannik Sinner in the round of 32 at the Vienna Open. If he successfully beats Sinner, then his improvement will be quite evident for everyone to see. His achievement can no longer be marked as a one-hit wonder or a fluke.
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Whitaker seems quite confident that Shelton is planning on getting into the Finals. In all honesty, this speculation is not far-fetched in any way, since every player wants to compete in the finals. What are your thoughts on this? Will Shelton make it to the finals? Let us know in the comments.
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