Ben Shelton shares heart-touching moment with his father after victory at Japan Open final

Ben Shelton has taken the reins in spearheading the much-needed reform of the American tennis circuit. Ever since the legendary Andy Roddick bid farewell to the tennis court, American tennis fans have found themselves in the midst of a challenging era. Despite their consistent presence in the top 10 rankings of the ATP, these players have unfortunately fallen short when it comes to securing a major tournament victory.

The young talent Shelton has lately demonstrated his mettle against top-tier opponents. During the US Open, he entertained the New York crowd on his way to the semifinals. Now, at 21 years old, he has added an ATP 500 title to his achievements, captivating his supporters back home.

Ben Shelton hugs his dad

Bryan Shelton, the father of Ben, passed on the tennis bug to his son at an early age. Bryan, a former professional player, was the coach of the University of Florida Gators men’s tennis team until very recently. Bryan feels much pride and satisfaction in seeing his heritage continued in the form of his talented son, who has grown into a professional athlete of the highest caliber.

After defeating Aslan Karatsev in the Japan Open, Ben Shelton embraced a now widespread tennis tradition. His phone pick-up and drop celebration has rapidly gained popularity among fellow players. He executed this joyful gesture before rushing to his family, positioned in the coaching box within the stands, and joyfully hugging his father.

Bryan Shelton left his job at the University of Florida earlier this year in order to coach his son personally, and Ben’s value has skyrocketed since their partnership took hold.

“Ben’s approach is a cliché; it’s ‘Let’s just try to get a little bit better.’ I think he’s got amazing examples over this last 20-year stretch with Roger and Rafa and Novak, of guys that continually look to get better. If those guys can look to get better every single day and they’re the standard of excellence at the very top of the game for a long period of time, that’s a good example for him to follow.”, Bryan had said during the US Open.

The US Open semifinal appearance aside, an ATP Tour-level title now has cemented Ben Shelton’s status as a growing competitor in the top level of tennis.

Ben Shelton wins the Japan Open

Ben Shelton won his first ATP title after he trounced Russia’s Aslan Karatsev 7-5, 6-1 in straight sets. Aslan, a giant killer and lucky loser in the past, battled hard in the first set, but a crucial break went in favor of Ben and he lost the advantage.

Ben Shelton took advantage of that dip in Aslan’s performance to cruise to victory in the tournament’s second set. Aslan capitulated in the second set, and in no time Ben had closed the set and match and then proceeded to celebrate in his trademark fashion.

The victory has elevated Ben Shelton to his highest-ever ranking of world No. 14. He now joins Frances Tiafoe, Taylor Fritz, and Tommy Paul as part of the select group of elite Americans in the ATP top-20 rankings.

Speaking in his post-match interview, Shelton looked tired yet joyful.

“It means a lot. This is something I’ve worked on with my team and wanted. To be consistent, 5 matches in a row and win the title in Tokyo, it means a lot,” he said.

What are your opinions on Ben Shelton’s touching celebration after his victory? Let us know in the comments section below.