Tennis

Ben Shelton, the 21-year-old American tennis prodigy, continues to impress with his exceptional talent and unwavering determination. At the US Open, Shelton has powered his way into the third round with an impressive victory over Roberto Bautista Agut.Shelton's game is a testament to his versatility and creativity. Standing at 6-foot-4, he possesses the agility of a ballet dancer, allowing him to cover the court with ease. His serve is a formidable weapon, and his forehand can be devastating. However, Shelton has evolved his game beyond the traditional power-based approach.Inspired by Carlos Alcaraz, Shelton is embracing a more creative style, mixing up his shots and changing the rhythm of his play. He believes that coming to the net and shortening points can be an advantage, especially in the grueling five-set matches of a Grand Slam.Shelton's father, Bryan, a former ATP pro, has played a significant role in his development. Bryan's emphasis on attacking the net has left a lasting impression on Ben, who now incorporates serve-and-volley tactics into his game.Despite his imposing size, Shelton exudes a friendly and approachable demeanor. He is grateful for the support of the crowd, even when they are cheering for his opponents. Shelton's love for the game is evident in his enthusiastic and energetic on-court presence.In the upcoming third round, Shelton will face his good friend Frances Tiafoe. The two have played twice before, with Shelton emerging victorious on both occasions. Shelton is excited for the challenge, recognizing Tiafoe's electric personality and the support he receives from the crowd.Shelton's journey has been marked by remarkable achievements. He is the youngest American to earn a Top Five win since Andy Roddick and the youngest American man to reach the US Open semifinals since Michael Chang. Yet, he remains unfazed by the pressure, approaching each match with the same enthusiasm and determination.As Shelton continues his ascent in the tennis world, his unique blend of talent, creativity, and unwavering spirit promises to captivate audiences for years to come.

US Open 2024: Shelton, Zheng, Rune, and Nakashima Set for Opening Day ClashesThe 2024 US Open kicks off with a captivating slate of first-round matches, featuring intriguing matchups between rising stars and seasoned veterans.Ben Shelton vs. Dominic ThiemLast year's second-round encounter between Shelton and Thiem was marred by the Austrian's health issues. Now, they face off again, with Thiem's career in its twilight. The American, buoyed by a strong summer, will be the favorite in front of the home crowd.Zheng Qinwen vs. Amanda AnisimovaTwo young powerhouses, Zheng and Anisimova, will clash in a battle of Olympic gold and WTA 1000 finalist. Both players possess exceptional power and will look to dictate the rallies. Zheng's higher ranking and recent form give her a slight edge.Holger Rune vs. Brandon NakashimaDespite being two years younger, Rune has achieved more than Nakashima. However, the American has won both their previous encounters, including a dominant victory last fall. Nakashima's calmness and pro-American crowd support could prove decisive in this highly anticipated clash.Other Notable Matches* Coco Gauff vs. Elena-Gabriela Ruse: The American teenager faces a tough test against the Romanian qualifier.* Rafael Nadal vs. Rinky Hijikata: The 22-time Grand Slam champion begins his title defense against the Australian wildcard.* Iga Swiatek vs. Jasmine Paolini: The world No. 1 opens her campaign against the Italian qualifier.

American tennis is experiencing a resurgence, with five male players now ranked among the world's top 20. Frances Tiafoe's recent success in Cincinnati, where he reached his first Masters 1000 final, has propelled him back into the elite group. Tiafoe joins Taylor Fritz, Ben Shelton, Tommy Paul, and Sebastian Korda, marking the first time since 1997 that five American men have simultaneously occupied the Top 20.This achievement is particularly notable considering that none of these players were born when the previous quintet of Pete Sampras, Michael Chang, Andre Agassi, Todd Martin, and Jim Courier graced the rankings. The current crop of American men represents a new generation of talent, with Fritz, Paul, and Korda all under the age of 25.On the women's side, American tennis is also thriving. Five American women are currently ranked in the Top 20: Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula, Danielle Collins, Emma Navarro, and Madison Keys. Taylor Townsend has also made a significant breakthrough, rising to No. 46 in the world after impressive performances in Toronto and Cincinnati. Townsend is one of three mothers currently ranked in the Top 50, alongside Victoria Azarenka and Elina Svitolina.The resurgence of American tennis is a testament to the depth and talent of the country's player pool. With a strong pipeline of young players emerging, the future of American tennis looks bright.

Ben Shelton's resilience was on full display in Cincinnati as he overcame a match point deficit to reach the round of 16. The left-hander's hard-fought 6-7 (6), 7-6 (7), 6-3 victory over Tomas Martin Etcheverry showcased his determination and ability to perform under pressure.Shelton faced an uphill battle after losing a 6-3 lead in the second-set tiebreaker. However, he summoned his inner strength and delivered a powerful first serve to deny Etcheverry's match point. The Argentine's backhand error handed Shelton the set, setting the stage for a thrilling decider.In the third set, Shelton's persistence paid off as he converted his second break point with a potent inside-out forehand. He then closed out the match with a love hold, securing a hard-earned comeback victory."These are the types of wins that really propel you," Shelton said. "The ones where you are tested, back against the wall and you come through in the big moments. That's what's really important to me about this one."Fellow left-hander Jack Draper also displayed his tenacity in a three-set battle against Stefanos Tsitsipas. Despite Tsitsipas serving for the match, Draper rallied to win the final three games and oust the ninth seed."It's very difficult conditions here in Cincinnati," Draper said. "I think what won me the match today was the way I competed. My determination to win, I think that showed in key moments."Draper's victory marked his second win over Tsitsipas, adding to his 2022 second-round triumph in Montreal. He will now face the winner of the match between Casper Ruud and Felix Auger-Aliassime.In an evening session showdown, second seed Carlos Alcaraz was leading Gael Monfils 6-3, 6-6 (1-3) when rain suspended play for the night. The outcome of their match remains to be determined.

World number one Jannik Sinner displayed his dominance on the Wimbledon grass, overcoming the challenge of big-serving American Ben Shelton in a thrilling three-set encounter. The Italian maestro secured a 6-2, 6-4, 7-6(9) victory, earning a spot in the quarter-finals.Shelton, known for his powerful serves, attempted to unsettle Sinner with an aggressive approach, employing serve-and-volley tactics. However, Sinner remained unfazed, breaking Shelton's serve twice in the opening set to take an early lead.In the second set, Sinner consolidated his advantage with an early break and sealed the set with a booming ace. Shelton, who had endured three-set battles in his previous rounds, faced an uphill task.The third set saw Shelton surge ahead 4-1, igniting hopes of a comeback. But Sinner's relentless power and precision proved too much for the American. The Italian drew level after eight games and saved a breakpoint to force a tiebreak.In the tense tiebreak, Shelton squandered four set points, allowing Sinner to seize the opportunity and secure the victory. The Italian's composure and determination under pressure were evident throughout the match.Sinner's victory sets up a quarter-final clash against either fifth seed Daniil Medvedev or 10th seed Grigor Dimitrov. The Italian will be aiming to continue his impressive run at Wimbledon, where he is yet to drop a set.

Defending Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz sets his sights on the quarter-finals as he faces piano-loving Frenchman Ugo Humbert on Sunday. Humbert, ranked 16th in the world, is a passionate pianist who finds solace in music away from the tennis court.Alcaraz, the world number three, aims to become the sixth man to win the French Open and Wimbledon back-to-back. Despite trailing by a set twice against Frances Tiafoe in the third round, Alcaraz's resilience and ability to push his opponents to their limits proved decisive.British fans are hopeful that Emma Raducanu can replicate her 2021 US Open triumph at Wimbledon. The 21-year-old, now ranked 135th, has a potential path to the semi-finals if she can overcome Lulu Sun and either Paula Badosa or Donna Vekic. Raducanu's victory over Maria Sakkari on Friday marked her second win over a top 10 player in as many weeks.American Ben Shelton is following in his father's footsteps at Wimbledon. Thirty years after Bryan Shelton reached the fourth round, Ben has matched his father's achievement. On Sunday, he faces world number one Jannik Sinner for a place in the quarter-finals. Shelton defeated Sinner in their first meeting in 2023 but has since lost twice to the Italian.

Wimbledon 2024: Previewing the Quarterfinal MatchupsThe Wimbledon quarterfinals are set to feature some thrilling matchups, with top seeds Jannik Sinner and Coco Gauff facing off against rising stars Ben Shelton and Emma Navarro, respectively.Jannik Sinner vs. Ben SheltonShelton, despite losing twice to Sinner in the past, remains optimistic. He acknowledges the Italian's power but believes his own all-around ability can pose a challenge. However, Sinner's consistency and return game, as showcased in his victory over Matteo Berrettini, may prove too much for Shelton to overcome.Coco Gauff vs. Emma NavarroThis highly anticipated matchup pits the top-ranked American against the breakout star of 2024. Gauff, known for her athleticism and serve, will face a tough test in Navarro, who has impressed with her all-court game and recent victory over Naomi Osaka. Gauff's experience and physicality may give her the edge, but Navarro's versatility and rising form could make this a close encounter.Madison Keys vs. Jasmine PaoliniKeys and Paolini share similar aggressive styles, but Keys' height and powerful serve may prove decisive. Paolini, coming off a strong performance at Roland Garros, will need to find a way to neutralize Keys' serve and exploit her backhand.Predictions:* Jannik Sinner* Coco Gauff* Madison Keys

Ben Shelton, the son of former Wimbledon quarterfinalist Bryan Shelton, has matched his father's feat by reaching the round of 16 at the prestigious tournament. Shelton's journey to this milestone has been marked by resilience and a unique father-son bond.Like his father, Shelton has faced tough challenges in his Wimbledon run. All three of his victories have gone the distance, including a marathon five-set battle against Denis Shapovalov. Shelton's ability to adapt and problem-solve on the court has been crucial to his success.Shelton's father, Bryan, has played a significant role in his son's development. Despite initially being reluctant to share his tennis experiences, Bryan has become an invaluable source of wisdom and support for Ben. The new coaching rule has allowed them to replicate the close connection they had during Ben's college matches.Shelton's rise to prominence has been gradual. After a disappointing pre-Wimbledon grass season, he has found his form at the All England Club. His victories this week mark only the second time this year that he has won three matches at a single event.Next up for Shelton is a daunting challenge against world number one Jannik Sinner. Shelton has faced Sinner three times previously, winning their first encounter but losing the last two. Despite the odds, Shelton remains confident in his abilities and is determined to give a strong performance.The presence of his father, Bryan, is a constant source of motivation for Shelton. "It's really cool for us to be able to share this moment together," said Shelton. "I'm grateful for everything that's happened so far."

Wimbledon, the hallowed grounds of tennis, witnessed a captivating display of resilience and versatility as Ben Shelton emerged victorious in a thrilling five-set battle against Mattia Bellucci.On Monday, Shelton faced an uphill battle, trailing two sets to one against the 148th-ranked qualifier. However, on Tuesday, he returned with renewed determination, adjusting his strategy to unsettle Bellucci. Shelton began varying his speeds and spins, opening up angles and creating more time for creativity.The American's powerful topspin forehand, versatile backhand, and improving net game kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. Shelton's massive serve, including a match-winning ace at 120 mph, proved to be a formidable weapon.In the fourth and fifth sets, Shelton's laser-like focus and relentless energy propelled him forward. However, rain delays twice interrupted his momentum, adding to the drama. Despite the setbacks, Shelton remained composed and fought off break points to secure the victory.Shelton's positive self-talk and respect for his opponent were evident throughout the match. "It was good and competitive," he said. "He wanted it bad. It was cool to see."Stan Smith, the 1972 Wimbledon champion, praised Shelton's love for competition. "Ben just loves the atmosphere of competition," said Smith. "He's an in-progress version of Carlos Alcaraz."On Wednesday, Shelton will face another challenge in Lloyd Harris, who also rallied from two sets down to advance. The American's versatility, resilience, and unwavering determination will be put to the test once again as he aims to continue his Wimbledon journey.