The camaraderie among tennis players often shines as brightly as the matches themselves, fostering legendary rivalries turned friendships reminiscent of Serena Williams and Caroline Wozniacki or Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. Among the rising stars, Coco Gauff and Ben Shelton exemplify this camaraderie, showcasing a budding friendship that has captured the attention of fans.
Gauff and Shelton’s bond has flourished both on and off the court, with glimpses of their friendship shared on social media. Recently, Shelton took to Instagram to highlight his dedication on the clay courts during the Italian Open. However, it was Gauff’s playful response that stole the spotlight, hinting at the warmth between these young tennis talents.
“I ain’t got ink, my passport’s tatted,” Shelton wrote in his Instagram post, accompanied by photos of his time in Europe. Gauff, quick to join the banter, suggested, “should’ve posted your mugshot pic,” adding her signature wit to the exchange.
Their friendship extends beyond social media posts, with Gauff revealing insights into their shared experiences, including tackling escape rooms with friends like Christopher Eubanks and Shelton’s girlfriend, Anna Mitchell. Gauff’s remarks during a conversation with Tennis Channel shed light on their adventures, showcasing their camaraderie beyond the tennis court.
Despite the playful banter and speculation surrounding their relationship, Gauff and Shelton maintain a strong bond rooted in friendship. Their interactions, whether on social media or during tournaments, reflect a genuine connection that transcends competition.
As Gauff and Shelton continue to navigate the tennis circuit, their friendship serves as a testament to the camaraderie that exists within the sport, fostering support, laughter, and shared experiences amidst the rigors of competition. With each playful exchange and shared moment, Gauff and Shelton embody the spirit of camaraderie that enriches the tennis community.
Gauff in Rome, ranking, and results in 2024
Ranked world no.3 (career-high), the American has managed to achieve a 23-7 record in 2024. The American is now having a run in Rome where she bested the world no.55 Magdalena Frech 6-3 6-3 and the world no.68 Jaqueline Cristian 6-1 0-6 6-3.
Coco Gauff will come up against the world no.126 Paula Badosa in the 4th round. Their current record is 3-1 for Badosa.
Coco has won 1 title in 2024 in Auckland.
Coco won 7 titles in her career: 5 on hard courts, 1 on clay courts and 1 on indoor courts. (See the list of her titles)
Shelton in Rome, ranking, and results in 2024
Ranked world no.14 (career-high), Shelton owns a compiled 17-8 match record in 2024. Shelton is now competing in Rome where he overcame the world no.63 Pavel Kotov 4-6 6-3 6-4.
Ben Shelton will take on the world no.56 Zhizhen Zhang in the 3rd round on Sunday at 8:00 pm on GRAND STAND ARENA. Their actual record is 1-0 for Shelton.
Shelton has won 1 title in 2024 in Houston.
Shelton is scheduled to compete next in Geneva (Gonet Geneva Open). He will start from the main draw that will commence on the 19th of May.
Coco Gauff and Ben Shelton |
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