Imago
Image credits – Imago
Imago
Image credits – Imago
Grand Slams are incomplete without emotional stories. We often see underdogs punching above the weight and making deep runs in majors. While doing so, they also end up becoming the crowd’s favorite. Rising American star Ben Shelton has had a similar story. After registering a monumental win over compatriot Tommy Paul, the 21-year-old enters the last eight of the US Open.
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Shelton was coming into the tournament after a poor run of form. He failed to win more than two matches at a tournament after his Australian Open run. However, the prodigy has finally lived up to expectations with a phenomenal run at the home slam. After making it to the quarter-finals, the American came up with an emotional message for his team.
Ben Shelton acknowledges his close ones
Shelton became the local hero at this year’s US Open run. His serving heroics were compared to the Ace King John Isner. He won over the crowd with his flamboyant and attacking tennis display.
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As soon as success came knocking on the door, the American went on to show humility. He paid a small tribute to his team in the on-court interview after the fourth round victory.
Shelton said, “We don’t panic over here (laughs). I stole him (his dad) away from the university this year. I’m really thankful to have all these guys. My dad is up there. 1 of the Florida coaches.. my mom, my sister, friends. Thank you all for your part that you play in this.” The crowd
Ben Shelton on his dad & his team at US Open:
“We don’t panic over here. 😂 I stole him away from the university this year. I’m really thankful to have all these guys. My dad is up there. 1 of the Florida coaches.. my mom, sister, friends. Thank you all for your part that you… pic.twitter.com/Qx4oT34lxO
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 3, 2023
Shelton showcased his calm and endearing side after the match. He was pretty fired up for most of the game, but after the completion; we saw a different side of the youngster.
Shelton was breathing fire at the US Open
The 21-year-old is known for his big serve and forehand. However, ‘big’ is an understatement for his unplayable serve. Shelton set the tournament record with his 149MPH rocket of a serve. In fact, he bettered his own record of 147MPH, which he created during his third round encounter.
Reuters
Tennis – Australian Open – Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia – January 15, 2023 Ben Shelton of the U.S. during a practice session REUTERS/Loren Elliott
He was totally fired up, not just with his gameplay but also with emotions. It was only after he sealed the deal, Shelton’s heart rate slowed down as he warmly embraced Tommy Paul.
How far do you think Ben Shelton will go at this year’s US Open? Do let us know in the comments.
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Written by
Edited by
Bhavani Singh