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Ahead of Laver Cup’s Final Act, Daunting Ben Shelton Prophecy Comes to Fore as Godfather of Tennis Discloses His Expectation From the Prodigy

Published 09/24/2023, 6:16 PM EDT

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With his heroics at the Flushing Meadows, American young gun Ben Shelton has become an instant fan favorite. The way he played at the US Open surprised everyone as he silenced the critics by making his way to the semi-finals of the tournament. Even though he lost the match against Novak Djokovic, he still gained a lot of love, respect, and a huge fanbase. His recent performances also led him to his maiden call at the Laver Cup where he is representing Team World. Now, the Godfather of tennis has also thrown his weight behind the sensational 20-year-old.

The man inspiring the eponymous Laver Cup has finally called his shots. The Queensland-born Rod Laver hailed his favorite upcoming tennis player in the circuit. But with his stamp of approval also came a bold claim – one which involves Shelton’s future!

Rod Laver lauds ‘favourite’ upcoming sensation Ben Shelton

Right before heading off to catch the on-court action for the final day of the Laver Cup, the iconic Rod Laver indulged Twitter with a small Q&A session. It all started when a question popped up from tennis journalist and author Bastien Fachan, regarding who the Aussie legend considered a favorite in the younger crop of players. Well, he more than delivered with a detailed answer!

The icon made a huge claim about the emerging talent in the tennis world, Ben Shelton. “Shelton is the new player on the tour. We’re going to see him winning a Slam, he’s got one of the biggest serves, a big left-hander, he doesn’t make many mistakes. He sees an opening and he goes for it,” said Rod Laver while predicting a bright future for the American ace. Laver’s words paint a picture of Shelton as an athlete destined for greatness. Laver’s admiration for the young player comes out because of his deadly serves, left-handed magic, and precision on the court.

While speaking highly about the young American, he also made a huge claim that he might someday land his hands on the prestigious Grand Slams. Laver’s words clearly exemplify the admiration that he holds for Shelton. However, Laver is not the only one who thinks this way. There are many others who have greatly appreciated the skills of the young American.

Sebastian Korda says Ben Shelton could become a great role model for others

After his success at the US Open, Ben caught everyone’s attention. With a unique game style and an eye for victory, he was the name that stood on everyone’s lips. Complementing Ben on putting up a fabulous show at the tournament, compatriot Sebastian Korda was never short of words to compliment the extraordinary efforts put in by the young American.

via Reuters

“I think Ben did a great job at the US Open. He just really showed the world what he’s capable of and what he can do in the near future. And he’s got a great game,” said Sebastian while talking about the young American. However, he was not the only one who praised the efforts put in by Ben.

Novak Djokovic, to whom he lost his match at the US Open also spoke highly about the 20-year-old while mentioning the heights he can reach while playing his best game. Thus, in a short span of time, Ben has become an absolute favorite for both, fans and players. With a great future ahead of him, only time will reveal the wonders that he can pull off.

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Written by:

Akshat Gaur

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Akshat Gaur is a Tennis Writer at EssentiallySports. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in 2021 and has been writing since then. With over two years of experience in the world of sports journalism, specifically tennis journalism, Akshat is someone who is immensely passionate about covering the ATP and the WTA Tour.
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Edited by:

Mitali Dey