American · Atlanta, USA · Born 9 October 2002Ben Shelton is an American professional tennis player known for his powerful left-handed serve, reaching the world No. 5 ranking and multiple Grand Slam semifinals.
Benjamin Todd Shelton was born on October 9, 2002, in Atlanta, Georgia, to Bryan Shelton, a former professional player who reached a career-high ATP ranking of No. 55 and later coached college tennis, and Lisa Witsken Shelton, an accomplished junior player herself. His father was head coach of Georgia Tech's women's team when Ben was born, later moving to the University of Florida, where his 2021 team won the NCAA championship. Shelton played football as a child before focusing on tennis at 12 under his father's guidance, and starred at the University of Florida, winning the 2022 NCAA singles title and being named the nation's top-ranked collegiate player before turning professional that August, forgoing his final years of college eligibility. Shelton's rise on tour was rapid: he reached the semi-finals of the 2023 US Open in just his second Grand Slam appearance, becoming the youngest American man to reach that stage since Andy Roddick in 2003, despite never having played a professional match outside the United States before that tournament. He won his first ATP title later that year at the Japan Open. Shelton reached a career-high singles ranking of world No. 5 in November 2025, winning a Masters 1000 title at that year's Canadian Open, and continues to be coached primarily by his father, forming one of the most notable father-son partnerships on the ATP Tour.
Big-serving American rising to the ATP top 5
His father Bryan Shelton was also a professional tennis player and now coaches at Florida — making Ben the first ATP player coached by a parent who also played professionally in the modern era.
Did You Know?How They Played
Shelton is known for his powerful left-handed serve, which regularly exceeds 140 mph and is considered one of the fastest on tour. His aggressive baseline game features heavy topspin forehands and he's not afraid to come forward to the net. He combines raw power with surprising court coverage for his 6'4" frame.
Lasting Impact
Shelton represents the new generation of American men's tennis, bringing excitement and power to a sport where American men had struggled to reach the highest levels in recent years.
Career Honours
- 5 ATP Tour singles titles including a Masters 1000
- career-high ranking No. 5
American Athletes