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Ben Shelton locked horns against Novak Djokovic in an interesting semi-final at the US Open. In a match that many anticipated to go anyway, it was the Serbian legend who had total control of the game as he managed to ease past the young American. However, prior to the start of the game, a former world number 1 player had some serious advice for the 23-time grand slam winner.
Justine Henin, a former champion shared her views on the heroics of Ben Shelton while comparing him to the likes of the defending US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz.
Former player advises Novak Djokovic to go “legs and genius” to overcome Ben Shelton
Former top-ranked tennis player, Justine Henin, shared her thoughts about the upcoming US Open semi-final between Novak Djokovic and the relaxed and carefree player, Ben Shelton. Henin thinks that Djokovic will have to rely on his remarkable skills and clever strategies, often referred to as his “legs and genius,” to overcome the spirited challenge posed by the rising star.
Speaking to Eurosport, Henin praised Shelton’s enthusiasm and charming personality, mentioning how he made a strong impression when he first played in Melbourne and has patiently waited for the right moment to shine again. She also complimented his exciting style of play, which brings a sense of freshness and charisma to the court.
“He’s phenomenal,” Henin said of Shelton. “He was already phenomenal when we discovered him at this level in Melbourne. “I have to be honest, it’s been very tough for him in the weeks after. He has waited for the US Open to show himself again, and he’s chosen his moment well. We love his spectacular tennis. He exudes freshness and charisma.”
Ben Shelton is heating up!
The third set has quickly gotten tight 👀 pic.twitter.com/qS9hqyFT6I
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 8, 2023
Henin also drew a comparison between Shelton and Carlos Alcaraz, emphasizing how they both find joy in playing tennis. Although she didn’t directly compare them, she highlighted the exceptional excitement they bring to American tennis.
Henin draws a comparison between Carlos Alcaraz and Ben Shelton
In the same interview, she said that Ben Shelton is doing the same that Carlos Alcaraz has pulled so far at the tournament which is fantastic to see. However, she did not draw direct comparisons between the two and rather stated that it is pure joy to watch the young American make his way into the semi-finals of the tournament.
“We’ve often talked about Carlos Alcaraz, about the notion of pleasure, and now he [Shelton] is enjoying it. We’re not going to compare them, but to be able to offer that to the American public is exceptional,” mentioned Henin in the same interview.
Thus, the likes of Ben Shelton have stood up to the expectations while starting a new era of young blood who are ready to dominate on the international stage after the world witnessed the dominance of the ‘Big 3’ for almost decades.
Watch this story: ‘What A Class Act’ – Serena Williams Sends Love As Roger Federer Hangs His Tennis Racket
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