When talking about Ben Shelton, one can only imagine an upcoming tennis sensation. Ever since his early days as a tennis professional, Shelton has shown immense potential and is on the right track to achieve greatness. However, what might not be known is the fact that he is a multi-game personality. Although there is plenty of wizardry on display when he steps onto the tennis court, Shelton also nurses a soft side for basketball. (among other sports, or at least he used to).
Before the ATP Dallas Open, the tennis star drew eyeballs, visiting the home arena of the Dallas Mavericks, the American Airlines Center, and displaying an interesting mix of tennis and hoops talent. Taking to his Instagram, the young American sensation posted a story where he is seen dunking while showcasing his skills on the basketball court.
Gearing himself for the upcoming tournament, he took some time from his regular schedule to try his hands at other sports. While he flaunted his basketball skills, what many might not know is the fact that Ben Shelton also has an interest in American football. Before being a professional tennis player, the young American also used to play football, and only later made a transition to tennis
Ben Shelton wanted to be a football player before transitioning to tennis
As a young child, Ben Shelton had little interest in tennis. Rather, he had a deep interest in team sports, more so in football, and was an aficionado of the game. However, his parents did not feel the same connection toward it, and always had a stronger bond with tennis. Despite this, they did not force him to try his hands on the sport and left the decision up to him.
At the age of 12, Shelton switched his focus to tennis, with his father Bryan as his coach. He said, “I played pretty much every sport growing up and I really got hooked on American Football,” He further added, “I switched to tennis a little bit later than most people but I fell in love with the game and began to train every day.”
Ben Shelton went on to find his spark for tennis, winning the 2022 NCAA men’s singles title, and made a sensational entry to the professional tennis scene with a bang.
