In the world of professional tennis, many players start their journey at a very young age, falling in love with the sport almost instantly. However, for rising tennis sensation Ben Shelton, the path to becoming a prominent figure on the ATP Tour was a bit different.

Shelton’s introduction to tennis was not one of immediate passion. In fact, he openly admits that he didn’t take to the sport right away. He was initially exposed to tennis through his father, who would eventually become his coach. In a recent episode of the ATP Radio Podcast, Ben Shelton revealed that as a young child, he had more fascination with other sports and didn’t have a particular affinity for tennis.

His memories of early tennis involvement include being handed a tennis racket and a balloon as part of his initial practice. At the time, tennis wasn’t his first choice; he was more interested in playing other sports.

However, a pivotal moment in Shelton’s tennis journey came when he won his first professional match in Illinois. It was during this time that he realized his desire to pursue a career in tennis. His determination and commitment to the sport eventually paid off, leading to his remarkable breakthrough on the ATP Tour.

In the tennis world, Ben Shelton has become a rising star, both nationally and internationally. His breakout year has been nothing short of spectacular, and he is on track to finish in the Top 20, a remarkable achievement for a player with unconventional beginnings. As the tennis world eagerly awaits what’s in store for Shelton in the upcoming year, he stands ready to continue making his mark on the sport he initially didn’t love but grew to excel in.

Ben Shelton in 2023

Currently the world no.19 (career-high), Shelton played his last match on the 12^th of October when he lost to world no.23 Sebastian Korda 6-7(10) 6-2 7-6(6) in the quarter in Shanghai (draw).

This season Ben achieved a 23-24 match record. Ben Shelton’s best accomplishment of the current season was getting to the semifinal in the Cagliari Challenger and at the U.S. Open.

He is also scheduled to play in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters) after Vienna. The main draw will start on the 23rd of October.