Former world No 1 Boris Becker has singled out the young ATP player who he feels is the most likely to join Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz in a “new Big Three.”
The tennis icon feels Ben Shelton is the “closest to reaching the top” as he assessed that his former charge Holger Rune “hasn’t made much progress” this year.
Shelton is currently 17th in the ATP Rankings, having reached a career-high position of world No 13 in August.
The 22-year-old holds a 37-23 win-loss record in 2024, with his best result at a big event so far this season his quarter-final run at the Cincinnati Masters. He won his second career ATP title at the ATP 250 event in Houston in April.
The American reached the semi-finals of the US Open and the quarter-finals of the Australian Open in a breakthrough 2023 campaign. Shelton also claimed his maiden title at the Japan Open ATP 500 in October last year.
As the world of tennis evolves, the search for the next generation of superstars becomes increasingly vital. With legends like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic hanging up their racquets, the sport looks to players who can fill the void. Among these rising stars, former world No. 1 Boris Becker has identified Ben Shelton as a potential member of a new “Big Three,” alongside established talents Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
Historically, the sport has experienced shifts in dominance, often characterized by the emergence of dominant figures. The current landscape, led by young talents, presents an opportunity for a fresh narrative in men’s tennis. Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz have already made significant inroads, consistently challenging for Grand Slam titles and positioning themselves among the elite. However, Becker’s endorsement of Shelton suggests that the American player is on a trajectory to join this elite group.
At just 22 years old, Ben Shelton has captured the attention of tennis fans and experts alike. His ascent in the ATP rankings has been marked by impressive performances, most notably reaching a career-high ranking of No. 13 in August 2024. Shelton’s remarkable journey includes a 37-23 win-loss record for the year, showcasing his ability to compete at a high level consistently.
His success is not just limited to rankings; Shelton has made significant strides in major tournaments. In 2023, he reached the semi-finals of the US Open and the quarter-finals of the Australian Open, demonstrating his capability to perform on the biggest stages. These accomplishments, combined with his ATP title win at the Japan Open in October 2023 and his recent title at the ATP 250 event in Houston, illustrate a player in form and on the rise.
What sets Shelton apart from his peers? For one, his powerful serve is a notable asset. He has the ability to dictate play from the outset, putting immense pressure on his opponents. This aggressive playing style, combined with his athleticism and court coverage, allows him to adapt to various playing conditions. Shelton’s left-handedness also provides a unique challenge for opponents, giving him an edge in certain matchups.
Moreover, Shelton’s mental resilience has been evident during high-pressure matches. His performance at the US Open, where he defeated seasoned players to reach the semi-finals, highlighted his capacity to perform when it matters most. This mental fortitude is crucial for anyone looking to establish themselves at the top level of the sport.
Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz have set a high bar for younger players, with both already capturing Grand Slam titles and showcasing remarkable maturity on the court. Sinner, with his powerful baseline game, and Alcaraz, with his explosive play and tactical intelligence, have proven to be formidable competitors. For Shelton to join this elite company, he must not only improve his game but also consistently perform in high-stakes situations.
Becker’s comparison of Shelton with Sinner and Alcaraz underscores the significance of sustained performance. While Shelton’s rise has been meteoric, he will need to maintain this momentum and continue to develop his game. The ability to navigate the pressure of major tournaments and consistently challenge for titles will be critical in determining his future success.
Despite his promising trajectory, Shelton faces several challenges. The ATP tour is highly competitive, with numerous players striving to break into the upper echelons of the rankings. Additionally, maintaining fitness and managing the physical demands of the sport will be crucial as he progresses through the tour.
Holger Rune, another young talent who Becker mentioned, serves as a cautionary tale. While Rune has immense potential, his recent lack of progress highlights the unpredictable nature of player development. Shelton must remain focused and avoid complacency to ensure he continues to improve and adapt.
The role of coaching cannot be overstated in Shelton’s development. Working with experienced coaches who understand the intricacies of the game can accelerate a player’s growth. Shelton has benefited from strong support both on and off the court, which has contributed to his success thus far. The ability to fine-tune his game, develop strategies against different opponents, and manage the mental aspects of the sport will be vital as he navigates his career.
As we look to the future, the tennis community will be watching closely to see if Ben Shelton can fulfill his potential and join Sinner and Alcaraz in forming a new generation of tennis greats. The path ahead is filled with opportunities and challenges, but Shelton’s talent and determination position him as a player to watch.
With the right support, continuous improvement, and a bit of luck, Shelton could very well find himself competing for the sport’s highest honors in the coming years. If he can replicate his successes and learn from his setbacks, he may indeed be the player who joins Sinner and Alcaraz in the new “Big Three” of men’s tennis. As fans of the sport, we can only hope to witness the exciting journey of Ben Shelton as he strives for greatness on the ATP Tour.