As Ben Shelton electrifies the 2025 Australian Open, former U.S. tennis star Mardy Fish has declared that the 21-year-old phenom is destined for multiple Grand Slam titles.
Shelton, seeded 21st, stormed into his first Australian Open semifinal with a commanding victory over Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego. Now, the American faces a monumental challenge in defending champion and World No. 1 Jannik Sinner for a coveted spot in the final. But Shelton’s fearless, high-octane playing style has caught the attention of fans and legends alike, including Fish, who couldn’t hold back his admiration.
Mardy Fish Praises Shelton’s Talent
Taking to Twitter, Fish expressed his awe for Shelton’s game and his ability to rise to the occasion on the sport’s biggest stages.
“Ben Shelton is an absolute dawg. Monster game. Shows up on the biggest stages. I think he wins multiple Slams,” Fish tweeted, igniting a wave of excitement among U.S. tennis fans.
Shelton’s blend of explosive power, precision serving, and relentless aggression has made him one of the most exciting young players on the tour. Already a semifinalist at the 2023 US Open, Shelton is building a reputation for delivering when it matters most.
Breaking a 20-Year American Drought?
Shelton is now in prime position to end the 20-year wait for an American man to claim a Grand Slam singles title. The last to do so was Andy Roddick, who triumphed at the 2003 US Open.
Shelton’s road to the final is anything but easy, with a daunting semifinal clash against Sinner, who has beaten the American in their last four meetings. However, the Atlanta native is undeterred, showing grit and composure throughout the tournament.
Shelton’s Meteoric Rise
Shelton’s journey to the top has been nothing short of meteoric. Just two years ago, he was outside the top 100, grinding through Challenger events. Now, the 21-year-old is among the brightest hopes for U.S. tennis, with two Grand Slam semifinal appearances already under his belt.
Can Shelton Shock Sinner?
Although Sinner leads their head-to-head record 4-1, Shelton’s booming serve and fearless approach could give him an edge on Melbourne’s fast courts. With Fish and an army of fans backing him, Shelton is poised to make history—and perhaps take the first step toward fulfilling Fish’s bold prediction of multiple Grand Slam titles.