Ben Shelton, the 21-year-old American tennis sensation, has drawn inspiration from Rafael Nadal’s relentless work ethic and fighting spirit. However, Shelton has consciously avoided emulating Nadal’s playing style, opting instead to develop his own unique approach to the game.
Shelton acknowledges that, as a fellow left-hander, he has naturally adopted certain aspects of Nadal’s game. He admires Nadal’s tenacity and mental fortitude, qualities that have been instrumental in the Spaniard’s success. Shelton has incorporated elements of Nadal’s mindset into his own game, striving to emulate his resilience and determination on the court. However, Shelton is keenly aware of the importance of individuality in tennis and has made a deliberate effort to carve out his own identity as a player. He emphasizes the need to leverage his unique strengths and assets, rather than merely copying another player’s style. This approach has allowed Shelton to develop a distinctive playing style that sets him apart from his peers.
Jim Courier, a former world number one, has observed Shelton’s evolution on the ATP Tour. Courier notes that Shelton’s groundstrokes have shown significant improvement, particularly his use of slices, which have added depth to his game. Courier’s insights highlight the positive trajectory of Shelton’s development, underscoring the effectiveness of his individualized approach to training and competition.
