Many young players are coming up and are outrightly smashing the bars set for them. However, along with that also comes the unrealistic expectations of being the next young LeBron James or Patrick Mahomes. American tennis sensation Taylor Fritz had proved his worth on the court and he sees the rise of even younger players like Ben Shelton. However, he seems to think that this trend might hurt players more than benefit them.

Obviously, getting a compliment and getting applauded for a brilliant performance is delightful. But it creates hindrances when the expectations get attached to realities. And Fritz has some strong opinions on that…

Taylor Fritz on the rise of Ben Shelton and unrealistic expectations of being the next LeBron James

The American tennis star met his younger compatriot, Ben Shelton, at the Indian Wells Masters. Though Fritz took down the young player in three sets, he credited him for his strong gameplay.

In the post-match conference, he stated, “He’s really good. He’s really talented.” However, Fritz also saw the downside to Shelton’s sudden fame. He stated, “I think it’s a really dangerous thing that people do putting crazy expectations on young American players.”

After further probing by a reporter over how young players get these expectations attached to them, Fritz shared some of his insight on the topic. He stated, “It happens in every sport.” Talking about his own experience, he stated, “When I was 18, 19, and I think I was too young at the time to properly deal with it. I think it probably hurt me.”

Further elaborating on the topic of how much pressure these expectations create, he stated, “It stops you from sometimes playing and competing as freely as you would like.” 

READ MORE:American Tennis Star Taylor Fritz Shows Unnecessary Passion as He Targets WTA World No.1 During Indian Wells Exhibition Match

Nonetheless, he agreed that this is quite common. We have seen the ill effects of these expectations on many young players like Emma Raducanu and Naomi Osaka. However, Gauff is dealing with these expectations like a pro.

Coco Gauff on finding a way for herself

The American teenage sensation Coco Gauff has unlimited expectations attached to her head. Even after clearing out that she does not want any comparison with Serena Williams, she has countered that question repeatedly.

Though she adores the Williams sisters and has attributed her love for the sport owing to them, she also has her boundaries clear. She has made it clear she does not want to be “next anyone”. She hailed Serena Williams as the GOAT and for herself, she is reserving a humble approach of figure out a way.

WATCH THIS STORY: ‘I Could Still Hear Shouts of ’N***!’ – Serena Williams Boycotting Indian Wells Tournament for 14 Years Still Rings in Our Ears

Do you think it is fair for younger players to get compared to legends in their respective sports? Let us know in the comments below.