Ben Shelton finds himself on the brink of the US Open final, a position he might have found surprising in July after a frustrating run of early exits, including at Wimbledon. Despite a season marked by inconsistency in major tournaments and Masters events, the 23-year-old has captured renewed attention following his victories at the Canadian Open and a dramatic quarter-final win over Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open. He is set to face fellow American Frances Tiafoe in the semi-finals.
Shelton's breakthrough onto the sport's biggest stages began in 2023, where he emerged as a charismatic contender. His unvarnished confidence and a distinctive "phone call" celebration, where he mimicked hanging up on opponents, drew both admiration and scrutiny. His run ended with a straight-sets loss to Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals.
A Newfound Platform
This latest surge in New York comes after a challenging start to the year, with Shelton admitting to frustration over his performances. However, his win against Alcaraz highlighted his significant potential, showcasing his powerful 146mph serve and impressive athleticism that allowed him to match Alcaraz's movement across the court. His dedication to recovery, including traditional Chinese medicine cupping, underscores his commitment to maintaining peak physical condition.
Shelton's ascent is also framed by his personal life and endorsements. He is reportedly nearing a $10 million deal with New Balance, a significant endorsement for the young player. He is also in a high-profile relationship with Trinity Rodman, daughter of NBA legend Dennis Rodman and a star player for the Washington Spirit. Rodman has been a visible presence at his matches, mirroring Shelton's support for her soccer career when his schedule permits.
Facing Familiar Foes and History
Shelton's journey to the semi-finals has been a testament to his evolving game, though his father and coach, Bryan Shelton, has noted that his aggressive style can sometimes lead to self-sabotage. The win against Alcaraz, however, demonstrated his ability to harness that aggression effectively.
His upcoming match against Frances Tiafoe carries added significance. Both players are close friends and have a history at the US Open, with their previous encounters at the tournament split one win apiece. Their semi-final clash guarantees a Black American man will reach the US Open final for the first time since Arthur Ashe in 1972, a historic milestone. For Shelton, this match represents another psychological hurdle as he aims to end the 23-year drought of an American male Grand Slam singles champion.