Ben Shelton recently won his second ATP trophy, and former world number one Jimmy Connors believes he is ascending to a new level.
Shelton, of course, already ascended last year with some impressive performances, especially in the season's final few months. He reached a maiden Grand Slam semi-final at the 2023 US Open and won his maiden ATP trophy, which was actually an ATP 500 event in Tokyo.
He also had several solid performances across several events, being in contention for the ATP Finals at one point. This year didn't start as well for Shelton, but he proved his level in Houston, winning his maiden trophy on clay.
Now, he hopes to transfer that level to European clay. For former player Jimmy Connors, it's go-time who believes that Shelton could work himself to the best level he's ever had if he really approaches it seriously.
"I think the next couple of months on clay, whatever it does for him, it's got to get him in good shape, that's one thing for sure. If he can get in there and get stuck in and play some matches and have some success, as he had shown in Houston, but then going to the grass.. I think these next couple of months, he's going to reach the pinnacle if he looks after himself and his game."
Shelton has become the top US player on Tour right now, overtaking both Frances Tiafoe and Taylor Fritz. He's primed for an even bigger breakout over the summer with the Olympics, but he needs to improve his clay level, which needs some work.
Another thing that helps him is having his dad by his side, who is not only a former player but also somebody who has been coaching young players for years.
"His [Shelton's] dad is his coach and who has the experience of being out on the tour and playing himself. So, you know their ego again, which is good. I know how it was with my mom."
"Sometimes, that could be a tough relationship if you are listening to your mom or you are listening to your dad and they're trying to coach you to become a better player."
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