Ben Shelton sought to console himself at a New York City dive bar on Monday night, the day after his loss in the US Open final. The 23-year-old American, who became the first Black man to reach the US Open final since Arthur Ashe in 1972, visited The Gem Saloon in Manhattan's Murray Hill neighborhood.
Shelton was seen posing for photos with patrons at the bar. The establishment later posted on Instagram about welcoming the US Open finalist and congratulated him on his tournament performance.
Meanwhile, US Open champion Alexander Zverev was also observed celebrating in New York City, having been photographed at Tao Downtown Nightclub with his team. Club staff presented Zverev with a sign congratulating him on his victory.
The match has brought renewed attention to Zverev's serving routine, with Shelton expressing frustration over the time taken for second serves. "I think that there should be some sort of rule… limiting time on second serve. You shouldn't have unlimited time," Shelton stated. He suggested that while players should have flexibility on first serves, the duration of second serves could be a concern for the sport and its spectators.
Reports indicate Zverev may have bounced the ball over 12,000 times during his matches at the US Open leading up to the final. Other players, such as Karen Khachanov, have reportedly found Zverev's prolonged routine to be bothersome. Shelton indicated that he has had discussions with umpires about the rule, noting that he often waits to get into a ready position until Zverev begins his routine.
Fans also reacted to Zverev's victory speech, during which he made a jest directed at Shelton's girlfriend, soccer star Trinity Rodman. Rodman had attended the match after playing her own game earlier that day. While Rodman appeared to take Zverev's comments in good humor, social media users criticized the German player's remarks.