Tommy Paul, a leading figure in American tennis, has conveyed his admiration for the emerging tennis star, Ben Shelton. Paul believes that Shelton’s rise in the tennis world has injected fresh energy and excitement into the American tennis scene. Despite having only Taylor Fritz in the top 10, the presence of Frances Tiafoe, Paul, and the young Shelton in the top 20 has fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual support among the American players.
Paul attributes much of this positive energy to the youthful enthusiasm that Shelton brings to the sport. Describing Shelton as a “young-kid with a lot of fun energy,” Paul emphasizes the positive impact this has had on the more seasoned players. Despite not having a formal mentoring role, older players like Paul have taken a liking to Shelton, recognizing his potential from an early stage.
As a part of the older generation of American players, Paul admits that the emergence of young talents makes him feel as though he has matured considerably. However, he also acknowledges the positive influence it has had on bringing the players together and pushing them to further success. This sentiment is shared by the peers of Shelton, with Tiafoe and Fritz also experiencing the positive effects of his presence in the sport.
Whilst acknowledging the dominance of other sports in the United States, Paul appreciates the fact that American tennis is making significant strides, with two players in the top 10. This indicates a promising future for American tennis and serves as an inspiration for younger players interested in the sport. Despite the challenges posed by the popularity of other sports, the success of American players like Fritz, Tiafoe, Paul, and the rising star Shelton, is a testament to the growing strength of American tennis.
In conclusion, the undeniable positive impact of Ben Shelton’s emergence on American tennis has galvanized the American tennis elite, bringing them closer together while also fueling their drive for success. As American tennis continues to build on this momentum, the future looks bright for the sport in the United States.