Ben Shelton gave fans a heartfelt glimpse into his offseason with a family reunion in Atlanta that ended in a moment his sister Emma will never forget. The 23-year-old capped his 2025 season by gifting her a brand-new Jeep Grand Cherokee as an early Christmas present.
Exhibition Tennis Lights Up Atlanta
Shelton’s return to Georgia coincided with the inaugural Atlanta Cup, held on December 6, 2025, at Gas South Arena. The exhibition featured World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, Australian star Nick Kyrgios, and Shelton himself.
Sabalenka defeated Osaka in singles, while Shelton overcame Kyrgios before teaming with Sabalenka for a mixed doubles victory against Osaka and Kyrgios. The event thrilled Atlanta fans and allowed Shelton to showcase his skills in front of a hometown crowd.
Family Time and Social Media Highlights
Away from the court, Shelton spent the weekend reconnecting with family. He shared a carousel of images on Instagram, mixing snapshots from the Atlanta Cup with candid family moments.
The standout clip showed Shelton surprising Emma with the SUV. Handing her the keys, he said, “Merry Christmas.” Emma, stunned, asked, “Why did you do that? How did you get me a car?” Shelton replied, “I told you I was going to do it.”
Still overwhelmed, Emma exclaimed, “Bro, I’m like, I’m going to throw up,” while inspecting the car. Shelton laughed and added, “Then do it before you get in.”
Emma Shelton’s Path Beyond Tennis
Emma’s reaction resonated with fans who know her background. A former college tennis player at the University of South Carolina and the University of Florida, she graduated in 2023 with a degree in Business Administration focused on finance. In January 2024, she began her career at Morgan Stanley in Alpharetta, Georgia, as a Digital Virtual Engagement Associate.
Ben Shelton’s Breakthrough Season
Shelton’s 2025 campaign marked a major step forward in his career. He captured his first Masters 1000 title at the Canadian Open, finished runner-up at the BMW Open, and earned his debut spot at the ATP Finals. He closed the season with a 40-24 record and $4.2 million in prize money, cementing his place among the sport’s rising stars.
Ben Shelton in 2025
LLLLWWWLWL At the moment ranked no.9, the American played his last match on the 14th of November when he lost to world no.5 Felix Auger-Aliassime 4-6 7-6(7) 7-5 in the round robin in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
Currently, during this season the American achieved a composed 40-24 record. This year, the American lifted the trophy in Toronto. Ben was the finalist in Munich.
