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In Pictures: Ben Shelton Points to His Father’s Inscription in an Iconic Frame After Emulating His 32-Year-Old Feat

Published 04/08/2024, 5:41 AM EDT

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It’s a happy moment for the Sheltons! Ben Shelton, following in his father’s footsteps, is embarking on an incredible adventure with the goal of not only surpassing his father’s accomplishments but also forging his route to success. And now, after winning ATP Houston, he recently shared a proud son moment while acknowledging his father’s time in the same tournament.

After defeating Frances Tiafoe in the championship round of the tournament, the 21-year-old tennis player became the 2024 title holder and got his name inscribed at the River Oaks Country Club. But do you know there was one more familiar name that made him more proud than having his own on the board? It was none other than his father’s name, Bryan Shelton.

A picture of him has been going around on social media recently, in which he was seen posing with his father’s inscription after joining him as one of the title holders nearly 32 years ago. While he clearly pointed out his father’s name and the year he won the title, which was 1992, his father was standing just by his side as both of them smiled their hearts out.

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On the other hand, the 21-year-old American sensation was holding his own trophy, making it a wholesome, proud father-son moment. Subsequently, after winning the title, he also shared gratitude for his father, highlighting how it was one of the most precious achievements that he wanted to earn on the court.

He said, “My dad won this tournament in 1992, he had that one up on me, and I had to get one back on him today. Thanks for being a trailblazer showing me the way, and I appreciate everyone out there who’s watching me.” Currently, Bryan Shelton coaches his son and travels with him on the ATP Tour, after leaving the Tennis Arena decades ago.

However, just a few days ago, the 16th-ranked tennis player, after winning the semi-final round, opened up about whether his father trash-talks him, looking back to his victory, that came decades ago.

Ben Shelton’s revelation about his father’s trash-talks

A few days ago, the 21-year-old tennis star answered a question regarding whether his father made fun of him for not having his own victories while always mentioning his own. With a laugh, he stated, “Nah, he just, he makes comments here, like when I took the title here. but no, he doesn’t put it in my face; maybe a little somehow here and there.”

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In addition, the 21-year-old understands that winning this ATP event would allow him to complete his first-ever father-son double at River Oaks, recognizing his father’s importance not just as a tennis player but also as his current coach. It won’t be wrong to say that the amusing statement highlights the strong relationship and mutual love of tennis between the father and son.

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However, what are your thoughts on Shelton following his father’s path? Do let us know in the comment section below.

READ MORE – Ben Shelton Turns Pink at the Mere Mention of Sydney Sweeney Acknowledging His Existence

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Written by:

Pratishtha Prakash

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Pratishtha Prakash, tennis writer and resident analyst at EssentiallySports isn't just a sports journalist; she's a storyteller who found her true calling in tennis content. It is something she seamlessly integrates into both her professional and personal realms. Having professional certifications in content and digital marketing, Pratishtha has made it a habit to hone her skills as a quality journalist.
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Edited by:

Ananya Giri