There exists a fire that consumes the insides of tennis superstars on the court. Unrelenting passion and a ferocious spirit set them apart from the rest. For the young American tennis prodigy, Ben Shelton, this fire isn’t simply a flicker. It is an inferno that rages in his soul like his idol, Rafael Nadal. As Shelton electrifies the Laver Cup stage with his quick and incensed playing style, he shared his story of motivation that rises above age and beyond generations.

Shelton shared how Nadal unwittingly became the guiding force behind his relentless pursuit of excellence. He doesn’t play or act like Nadal. However, they share a common commitment to play their absolute best on the court. The young star has reliably focused on Nadal as his directing light on the court as he chases down balls like no other.

Ben Shelton shared how Rafael Nadal’s fighting spirit ignited his tennis journey

Ben Shelton, the 21-year-old American dynamo, has been setting the tennis stage burning with his vivacious and valiant style of play starting with the US Open. With his determination and never-say-die spirit, he even managed to attract comparisons to the King of Clay himself. At the 2023 Laver Cup, the American had an undeniably exhilarating 7-6(4), 6-1 triumph over Frenchman Arthur Fils. Shelton was informed by a journalist that he radiated a ‘Rafa-esque’ vibe – and Shelton responded promptly!

According to Tennis Majors, the gritty and aggressive young American said,”… the way that I love to fight, that I don’t give up. It could be some traits that I saw or learned from Rafa growing up.” Shelton also has learned from Nadal that expressing emotions is powerful. He grasps the importance of displaying his energy and assurance in each match. Hence, the American also added why “showing some emotion, showing my fire, and trying to come after the guy that I’m playing” have become his defining traits on the court.

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Shelton and Nadal comprehend that tennis is something beyond merely winning; it’s about exertion, energy, and a commitment to the game they love. Shelton’s journey shows the enduring impact of tennis greats, and how former players have passed on their legacy to the younger generation. Above all, their influence has raised newer players to be bold as they chart their own paths forward in the sport.

Shelton shared a bold response to doubters ahead of his Laver Cup debut

Shelton was excited to participate in the Laver Cup as a member of Team World, and he was reportedly feeling more prepared than ever. As he entered the Laver Cup with a wave of momentum behind him, the American had a message for those who doubted him. He acknowledged the skepticism surrounding his selection.

According to a report by Eurosport, Shelton talked about comments on Instagram questioning why he was chosen for the team. However, he was determined to silence the doubters and demonstrate his worthiness of a spot on the team. Shelton shared that he was more than happy to prove a few people wrong. Well, having clinched a decisive initial victory for his team, he has certainly delivered on his word!

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