Tennis

Dean Goldfine, a former college tennis player, has become a renowned coach in the tennis world, guiding many top American players to success. His journey began as a hitting partner for Mary Joe Fernandez, leading to opportunities to coach Todd Martin and Andy Roddick.Goldfine's partnership with Martin taught him valuable lessons, which he applied to his coaching of Roddick. Despite facing the challenges of the "Big-3" era, Roddick's unwavering work ethic and competitiveness made him a successful player.Goldfine has also worked with Sebastian Korda and Ben Shelton, helping them navigate the transition to professional tennis. He remains actively involved in the sport through his work with the USTA and American Davis Cup team.Goldfine's passion for teaching and transferring knowledge drives his coaching philosophy. He believes in fostering a positive and supportive environment where players can reach their full potential.

Ben Shelton, the rising American tennis star, has stormed into the final of the Swiss Indoors Basel, marking a significant milestone in his young career. The 20-year-old defeated Arthur Fils in a thrilling semifinal match, 6-3, 7-6 (9), showcasing his resilience and determination.Shelton's victory was particularly impressive considering Fils' impressive 13-match winning streak at ATP 500 events. The Frenchman had captured titles in Hamburg and Tokyo, but Shelton refused to be intimidated. Despite trailing 5-0 in the second set tie-break, Shelton fought back with unwavering resolve.Fils held five set points, but Shelton's unwavering focus and relentless spirit proved too much to overcome. The American clawed back each time, eventually securing the tie-break 11-9 and sealing the match in straight sets.This victory marks Shelton's third ATP final appearance, and he remains undefeated in the previous two. Last year, he triumphed at the ATP 500 event in Tokyo, and earlier this year, he claimed the ATP 250 title in Houston on clay.Shelton's success in Basel is particularly noteworthy as he is the first American to reach the final since Andre Agassi in 1998. Agassi finished runner-up that year, but Shelton has the opportunity to become the ninth American overall to lift the Basel trophy.Shelton's remarkable run in Basel has not only solidified his status as a rising star but also highlighted the resurgence of American tennis. He joins a prestigious list of American players who have graced the Basel final, including John McEnroe, Brian Gottfried, Vitas Gerulaitis, Jim Courier, and Pete Sampras.As Shelton prepares for the final, he will face either Felix Auger-Aliassime or Holger Rune. Regardless of his opponent, Shelton's unwavering determination and exceptional talent make him a formidable contender for the title.

American rising star Ben Shelton has set up a tantalizing quarterfinal clash with world No. 8 Andrey Rublev at the Swiss Indoors Basel after overcoming home favorite Stan Wawrinka in a thrilling 7-6 (2), 7-5 victory.Shelton, the sixth seed, displayed remarkable resilience and clutch play in the face of a spirited challenge from the three-time Grand Slam champion Wawrinka. The 22-year-old American's powerful serve and ability to execute in crucial moments proved decisive."I thought I was just tough in the big moments," Shelton said after the match. "There was a lot of challenges out there today, but I thought he played a really good match. The crowd was really into it, obviously, behind their guy."Shelton's victory continues his impressive run of form indoors this season. He has yet to drop a set in Basel and has shown steady improvement since his breakout 2023 campaign, which included a semifinal appearance at the US Open.Wawrinka, despite his age, remains a formidable opponent, as evidenced by his recent semifinal finish in Stockholm. However, Shelton's ability to break serve at a crucial juncture in the second set proved to be the difference.In the quarterfinals, Shelton will face a stern test against Rublev, who has also been in impressive form in Basel. The Russian has won both of his matches in straight sets and currently sits eighth in the ATP Finals race.Meanwhile, in other quarterfinal matchups, No. 3 seed Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Botic van de Zandschulp 7-6 (3), 7-5, while No. 7 seed Arthur Fils upset Pedro Martinez in straight sets.

American tennis sensation Ben Shelton has set up a tantalizing fourth-round clash with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner at the Rolex Shanghai Masters. Shelton, who stunned Sinner at the same stage last year, is eager to repeat his heroics and break the Italian's impressive winning streak.Shelton's victory over Roberto Carballes Baena on Tuesday was a testament to his growing confidence and all-court prowess. The left-hander served impeccably, winning 35 of his 38 first-serve points and not facing a single break point."I thought I served extremely well, probably my best serving day this year," Shelton said. "I did a good job capitalizing in big moments to get my breaks."Shelton's serve-and-volley game has been a key factor in his recent success. He has won 35 of his 38 first-serve points in Shanghai, and his powerful forehand has been a constant threat.Sinner, on the other hand, has been in dominant form since winning his first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open earlier this year. The Italian has won two majors and reached world No. 1, despite an ongoing anti-doping case.Shelton is aware of the challenge ahead but remains optimistic. "It's always a big opportunity whenever you get to play one of the best two or three players in the world," he said. "I'm really looking forward to it, that will be fun."The American has a 1-4 record against Top 10 opponents this season, but his lone victory came against world No. 5 Daniil Medvedev at the Laver Cup. Shelton is hoping to become the first player to oust Sinner before the quarterfinal stage of an event in 2024."Obviously, huge serve and huge forehand," Sinner said when asked about the potential matchup with Shelton. "He has improved a lot, so hopefully I will be ready."In other quarterfinal matchups, seventh seed Taylor Fritz will face 12th seed Holger Rune, while eighth seed Andrey Rublev will take on 10th seed Hubert Hurkacz.

Brandon Nakashima Upsets Frances Tiafoe, Ben Shelton Advances in TokyoAt the ongoing Tokyo Open, Brandon Nakashima showcased his impressive form by defeating seventh seed Frances Tiafoe in straight sets, 7-5, 6-3. Despite Tiafoe securing an early break, Nakashima's superior serving proved decisive, as he fired 12 aces and prevented Tiafoe from creating another break point.Nakashima, currently ranked 36th in the world, has been in excellent form lately, having previously defeated fellow Americans Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul on hard courts. He also reached the round of 16 at the US Open, where he defeated Holger Rune and Lorenzo Musetti.In the second round, Nakashima will face France's Ugo Humbert.Meanwhile, defending Tokyo champion Ben Shelton overcame a slow start to defeat Reilly Opelka, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4. After dropping the first set, Shelton regrouped and converted three breaks to level the match. In the decider, Shelton faced a challenge in the eighth game when Opelka saved three break points to reach 4-4. However, Shelton remained composed and broke Opelka's serve in the next game to secure the victory.Shelton, who won his maiden ATP title in Tokyo last October, has a 13-15 record this year in matches where he dropped the first set.

At the glamorous Laver Cup Gala Opening, the world's media witnessed a unique spectacle as Team World's Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe shared a lighthearted moment on the black carpet. Their infectious laughter and camaraderie hinted at the close bond they had forged.Shelton's college experience at the University of Florida has played a pivotal role in his success at the Laver Cup. The intense atmosphere and pressure-filled doubles matches he encountered there have prepared him for the challenges of professional tennis."Doubles play is huge in college tennis," Shelton explained. "I got used to caring a lot about it and focusing on it in intense atmospheres."This experience proved invaluable on Day 1 of the Laver Cup, as Shelton teamed up with Taylor Fritz to secure a crucial doubles victory over Team Europe's Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev. Their on-court chemistry was evident, despite Shelton's playful jab at Fritz's age."Taylor is a Laver Cup veteran, so I'm not worried about him being prepared," Shelton said. "But I'm not calling you old..."Fritz responded with a smile, "Vet, I don't know. I'm not that old!"Shelton's doubles prowess continued on Saturday night, as he partnered with Alejandro Tabilo to defeat Team Europe's Casper Ruud and Stefanos Tsitsipas. The victory further solidified Team World's position in the competition.Throughout the Laver Cup, Shelton's teammates have been a constant source of support. Tiafoe was the first to congratulate him after his doubles wins, demonstrating the strong bond within the team.Shelton's journey at the Laver Cup is a testament to the importance of camaraderie and the value of college tennis experience in preparing young players for the rigors of professional competition.

The Laver Cup's opening day in Berlin concluded with a thrilling 2-2 tie between Team World and Team Europe.In the evening session, Grigor Dimitrov of Team Europe overcame Alejandro Tabilo of Team World in a hard-fought 7-6 (4), 7-6 (2) battle. Dimitrov's victory gave Team Europe an early lead.However, Team World responded with a stunning performance in the final match of the day. Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton teamed up to defeat Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev 7-6 (5), 6-4.Fritz and Shelton's victory was particularly impressive considering the caliber of their opponents. Alcaraz, the reigning US Open champion, was making his Laver Cup debut alongside Zverev, the German No. 1.The match was closely contested throughout, with both teams trading breaks in the first set. However, Fritz and Shelton managed to secure the tie-break and take the early advantage.In the second set, Fritz and Shelton continued to play aggressively, forcing Alcaraz and Zverev into errors. The American duo eventually broke serve in the fourth game and held on to their lead to secure the victory."We both served really well under pressure," said Fritz after the match. "Ben served incredibly well. I didn't have to hit any volleys, so that was huge."Shelton added, "It makes life pretty easy when you're playing with a guy who's moving like Taylor is right now. Pretty light on his feet."With the tie at 2-2, the Laver Cup remains wide open heading into Day 2. Team Europe will be looking to regain the lead, while Team World will be aiming to secure their first victory in the competition.

Coco Gauff vs. Elina SvitolinaCoco Gauff has cruised through her first two matches at the US Open, but her performances have raised concerns about her serve and forehand. Her opponent in the third round, Elina Svitolina, is a more experienced and consistent player who could exploit Gauff's weaknesses. However, Gauff is aware of the challenge and is determined to avoid giving Svitolina any opportunities.Ben Shelton vs. Frances TiafoeThe US tennis community is eagerly anticipating the third-round clash between Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe. Both players are in excellent form and have reached the semifinals at the Open in the past two years. Shelton holds a 2-0 record against Tiafoe, but Tiafoe is playing with renewed confidence under his new coach. The match is expected to be a close and entertaining affair, with Shelton's power and Tiafoe's versatility likely to be key factors.Novak Djokovic vs. Alexei PopyrinNovak Djokovic and Alexei Popyrin will meet for the third time this year in the third round of the US Open. Popyrin has made significant improvements in his game since their previous encounters, winning his first Masters 1000 title in Montreal. However, Djokovic remains the favorite, with his experience and return skills likely to give him the edge.

The U.S. Open tennis tournament is heating up, and there have been some major developments in both the men's and women's draws.In the women's draw, Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova was knocked out in the second round by Elena-Gabriela Ruse. Krejcikova had won her second Grand Slam singles title this summer, but she hasn't played any matches since the Paris Olympics. She acknowledged last week that she didn't know where her level of play was. Turns out, it wasn't good enough.No woman has won Wimbledon and the U.S. Open in the same year since Serena Williams in 2012.On the men's side, Frances Tiafoe got the rematch he wanted, a second shot at Ben Shelton. Tiafoe, the No. 20 seed, won the first two sets before his opponent, Alexander Shevchenko, retired after the first game of the third set. Shelton, the No. 13 seed, later beat Roberto Bautista Agut to advance to the third round. He ousted Tiafoe last year in the quarterfinals, stopping Tiafoe from what would have been a second straight trip to the U.S. Open semifinals.Tiafoe had short work on the steamiest day of the tournament thus far, with temperatures in New York surpassing 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). Three men's matches ended when an opponent stopped playing, the last one sending defending champion Novak Djokovic to the third round when Laslo Djere retired early in the third set with what appeared to be pain near his hip after they played for more than two hours across the first two sets.Defending champion Coco Gauff marched into the third round on the women's side with a 6-4, 6-0 victory over Tatjana Maria. The No. 3 seed will next face No. 27 seed Elina Svitolina.Ruse, a 26-year-old from Romania, advanced to the third round of a Grand Slam for the first time and will play No. 26 seed Paula Badosa, who eliminated American Taylor Townsend.Jiri Lehecka ignored the heat to engineer the biggest comeback of his career, rallying to beat Mitchell Krueger in a match that finished a minute shy of four hours. Lehecka, the No. 32 seed, not only came from two sets down for the first time in his career, but he was even down 3-0 in the third set against the American qualifier.He will face No. 6 seed Andrey Rublev, who also came from two sets down to outlast Arthur Rinderknech.Past U.S. Open finalists Aryna Sabalenka and Alexander Zverev both won their matches in straight sets, while Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen, the No. 7 seed, rallied passed Erika Andreeva in three sets. But No. 12 Daria Kasatkina was upset by American Peyton Stearns, who will next face No. 24 seed and Olympic silver medalist Donna Vekic.Another women's third-round match will see No. 14 seed Madison Keys against No. 33 Elise Mertens. Keys, the 2017 runner-up in Flushing Meadows, rolled past Maya Joint, while Mertens knocked out Ajla Tomljanovic.