Shelton, who reached the semi-finals of the US Open in 2023 before losing to Novak Djokovic, also reached his first Australian Open earlier this year. But the world number 9 had no answer for Jannik Sinner, who ousted him in straight sets on his way to defending his title at Melbourne Park.
Six months after enjoying a deep run in Melbourne, Shelton became Masters champion in Toronto, and was widely considered a dark horse for the US Open title. Unfortunately for the 23-year-old American, he suffered a shoulder injury and was forced to retire midway through his third round match at Flushing Meadows.
Overall, it was a positive 2025 for the American, who achieved a career-high No. 5 and once again proved he was capable of making some noise on the biggest stage.
Rusedski: The wild card I like is Shelton
“The wild card I like is Ben Shelton. What has he done in the offseason? Has he improved that backhand? Has he improved his court position? His father has won two ATP Tour titles. He has a lot of knowledge. Can he correct those little holes in his game because he has a lot of tools. He broke into the top eight this year,” Rusedski said on his recently launched podcast.
It’s no secret that Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are widely considered the two top favorites for the Happy Slam title. Record ten-time champion Djokovic – who reached the semi-finals this year before retiring due to a hamstring injury – is also one to watch.
Fast hard courts suit Shelton’s game and it will be interesting to see if the American can do some damage at Melbourne Park in January.
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