Ben Shelton Feels SEC Vibes in Roland Garros Debut

Ben Shelton's Roland Garros debut was a nostalgic experience for the American, who felt the familiar atmosphere of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in the Parisian crowd. Despite playing against a French opponent, Hugo Gaston, on Court 14, Shelton drew inspiration from the passionate support, which reminded him of his days competing in the Florida-Georgia rivalry.

"Obviously, he had the home field advantage, but I felt some love out there," Shelton said after his 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 victory. "The partisan atmosphere only added to the excitement."

Shelton's connection to the SEC runs deep. He played for the University of Florida, where he helped the team win the 2021 NCAA Championship and claimed the 2022 NCAA Singles Championship. His father, Bryan Shelton, coached the team and is now back on his son's coaching staff alongside Dean Goldfine.

"I think playing at Georgia is comparable," Shelton said, referring to the rowdy atmosphere. "Not because of the noise, but because of the very nasty, choice words that people say to you in the stands."

Shelton's college experience has shaped his approach to professional tennis. He has carried the lessons learned on and off the court into his ATP career, where he has already won two titles, including the Houston clay-court event earlier this year.

In the second round of Roland Garros, Shelton will face Kei Nishikori, a former world No. 4 who has overcome injuries to return to Grand Slam competition. Nishikori defeated Gabriel Diallo, a former University of Kentucky player, in a five-set thriller.

Shelton's journey at Roland Garros is a testament to his resilience and the influence of his college tennis roots. The American is embracing the challenge of playing on the biggest stage, drawing on the lessons and experiences that have shaped his career.

Tags: #RolandGarros, #BenShelton, #SEC, #CollegeTennis, #FrenchOpen