Ben Shelton next one to make "deep run" - Brad Gilbert on the American prodigy

| by Jamie Malachy

Andre Agassi's former coach Brad Gilbert has showered praise on the promising young American star, Ben Shelton.

Speaking to the 'Holding Court with Patrick McEnroe' podcast, Gilbert said that of all the up-and-coming new young stars of the game, it is Ben Shelton who currently holds the greatest promise for the future.

You see where his game is and you think, man! There's a lot of growth upside in his game, I think that the next one now who's gonna make that deep run in... I'm left there thinking about Ben Shelton probably more than anybody. Thinking about his upside for potential and growth. I mean, in less than 5 ATP tournaments in his career. He's obviously played quite a few Challengers in that short period of time. But, just 5... I think it's only 4 maybe its 5 pro-ATP events and he's already in the top 50.

Brad Gilbert on the potential of Ben Shelton
Ben Shelton dominates serving stats at 2023 Australian Open
Ben Shelton dominates serving stats at 2023 Australian Open

However, while also very impressed with the young American, Patrick McEnroe was less effusive in his praise, instead highlighting several areas where Shelton could yet improve.

You can say from watching him against Wolf, and then of course, against Tommy Paul that you know, the serve, the forehand or explosives, the creativity [were impressive]. But, there are a couple of things that can get a lot better. You know, the return of serve, the court positioning, playing the right shot, putting pressure on in a more organized fashion.

Patrick McEnroe highlights areas of improvement for Ben Shelton

What is less up for debate, however, is that the 20-year-old's rapid rise up inside the top 50 on the ATP rankings is sensational. The powerful young player backed this up at the start of this season with a wonderful run to the last eight at the Australian Open.

There is no doubt that the future is bright for Shelton. How far he goes is up to him.

Ben Shelton withdraws from 2023 Dallas Open
Ben Shelton withdraws from 2023 Dallas Open

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