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Despite US Open Glory on the Line, Frances Tiafoe Showers Big Brother Love on Opponent Ben Shelton as the Enthralling Duo Engage in a Warm Exchange

Published 09/05/2023, 9:29 PM EDT

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American sensation Ben Shelton and his compatriot Frances Tiafoe are all set for the big All-American clash. Their quarter-final match of the US Open is undoubtedly going to be a treat for the viewers as both players share many physical similarities. Both Tiafoe and Shelton are athletic, muscular, and strong. Having grown up together, the Top-10 seed, gearing up to play the emerging young gun, displays selfless affection for Shelton.

With no animosity between them, Big Foe and the ATP Top-50 Shelton shared their admiration for each other hours before their big clash. The victory in the quarter-finals is vital to both the champions, but their sportsmanship and brotherhood lie above all. Tiafoe turned on his ‘big brother’ mode as he was left in awe of his young compatriot.

Frances Tiafoe and Ben Shelton exchange honest confessions

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Tiafoe and Shelton share a lot of common ground besides their game. They grew up in the same place and knew each other before entering professional tennis. Though the duo had never encountered each other on the court, they knew enough to brew phenomenal tactics against each other. But off-court, they serve major brotherly goals.

 

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In a video released by USTA, the bond between the two was on full display. In the first issue of ‘Áll on the Table’ program, the 20-year-old confessed, “I feel like, for the most part, I’ve got a big personality. Not as big as yours, but I’m kind of, you know, bigger than you. I’m kind of like a mini version of you.” Tiafoe shared the same idea, as he said, “He reminds me a lot of myself, though. He does, man. How old are you? 19?”, to which Shelton replied that he was 20. Big Foe continued, “Picture me at 20. Coming in like I’m loud, I’m ‘Come On!’ in everybody’s face.” Both the players are loud on the court, but Shelton also pointed out at their soft corners as he said, ”We never stop smiling. Me or him.”

The ATP 10th rank is famous for his pranks, humor, and playful nature. Comparing his personality to Shelton’s, Tiafoe said that his compatriot also shares his raw character and serves big. But when Shelton shared his own perspective, Big Foe reflected on how he escaped from it and dished out expert advice to the World. No 47.

Big Foe cautions the rising American star not to do what he did

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Shelton shared that he believes he can win Grand Slams and be No.1 in the world. He expressed that he wishes to significantly impact people, like all the top champions. Young Shelton dreams of changing the world for the better, and for that, he needs a bigger stage, as his words carry weight only when he achieves big.

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Impressed with his compatriot’s words, the 2022 US Open semi-finalist said he ran away from his dreams. So, Tiafoe advised the Australian Open quarter-finalist not to escape his dreams like he did. Big Foe alerted Shelton not to lose his confidence and believe in himself since these two factors are the key ingredients to fulfilling one’s goals.

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Tiafoe and Shelton made history at Flushing Meadows as they set up an All-American clash between two people of color. Arthur Ashe Stadium will witness a match that ends up in history books. As the game commences, fans all over the world await an enthralling couple of hours with bated breath.

WATCH THIS STORY: ‘What A Class Act’ – Serena Williams Sends Love As Roger Federer Hangs His Tennis Racket

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Written by:

Krishna Priya

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Vadlamani Krishna Priya is a tennis writer at Essentially Sports. Pursuing her passion for storytelling, she has a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. Helped by her cousin who introduced her to the rules and regulations of the game during her childhood, Roger Federer matches became Priya's gateway to the world of tennis.
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Edited by:

Mitali Dey