Wimbledon and Roger Federer is a bond lasting for eternity. While the Swiss maestro is one of the most decorated players at the tournament, he has made sure to make his presence felt here even after his retirement. During this year’s edition, Federer was seen in attendance, enjoying the action from the stands.

Yesterday, he was present at Court 1, watching the match between Ben Shelton and Denis Shapovalov. While it was a welcome surprise for the fans there, it was an unexpected surprise for Shelton, who felt the pressure to perform in front of his idol. Nonetheless, Federer proved to be a lucky charm for him as he went on to win the match in five sets.

Currently, Shelton is engrossed in a thrilling battle with World Number 1, Jannik Sinner, on Court 1. Hours after Federer witnessed Shelton playing, Salma Hayek, the renowned actress and film producer, was spotted in the stands, enjoying the match between Shelton and Sinner. While Shelton chalked out a win yesterday, he is currently two sets to love down against Sinner.

Hayek was seen cheering for Shelton, who has been one of America’s most-talked-about tennis players after reaching the US Open semifinal last year. The 21-year-old has had a tremendous rise ever since and is aiming to win his maiden Grand Slam title. However, with fame, comes pressure, and Shelton certainly felt the pressure after the likes of Federer and Hayek witnessed his matches closely.

Shelton has been fearless in his approach despite the added pressure. Ahead of facing World Number 1, Jannik Sinner, he mentioned, “I’m really excited to take him on. The successes he’s achieving are impressive, I’m aware that it’s a difficult challenge and a great test, but I also see it as a good opportunity. I’m going out there to compete to the maximum, I’m confident in myself and I’m not afraid of anyone.”

While taking on the players around the globe, Shelton also matched his father’s incredible feat achieved 30 years ago. Subsequently, he paid tribute to him and had a heartwarming message.

Ben Shelton out to fill his father’s shoes

During the 1994 Wimbledon Championships, Shelton’s father, Bryan, made it to the fourth round of the tournament. It was his best performance at the grass-court Grand Slam tournament. After Shelton’s win over Denis Shapovalov, he reached the Wimbledon fourth round for the first time in his career and in the process, emulating his father’s 30-year-old feat.

While expressing joy after achieving this feat, Shelton paid tribute to his father by saying, “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.”

At 21, Shelton still has a long way to go in his career. Who knows, one day, he might even break his father’s feat and the latter will be the most proud father in the world!