Ben Shelton: Rising American tennis star Ben Shelton has revealed his two favorite players to watch, surprising fans with his unconventional choices. Rather than naming some of the current top five players, Shelton highlighted Carlos Alcaraz and Grigor Dimitrov as his inspirations on the court. This bold selection showcases Shelton’s admiration for diverse styles and vibrant personalities, setting him apart from other athletes.

Shelton on Carlos Alcaraz: A Player with Skill and Personality

Shelton admires Alcaraz, the dynamic 21-year-old Spanish sensation, for his versatility and energetic playing style. Alcaraz’s ability to hit any shot, entertain the crowd, and maintain a positive attitude resonates with Shelton, who appreciates a player that can bring personality to the sport. “Alcaraz is a tremendous athlete who entertains the crowd and always plays with a smile,” Shelton shared. “Watching a player with personality makes me feel like I’m seeing someone who’s not just competing but also having fun.”

Alcaraz’s flair for high-level tennis, combined with his down-to-earth charm, has made him one of the most captivating figures on the ATP Tour. His accomplishments, including a recent China Open title, have further cemented his position as one of Shelton’s favorites to watch.

Grigor Dimitrov: Elegance in Motion

Alongside Alcaraz, Shelton praised Grigor Dimitrov, often likened to Roger Federer for his graceful playing style. Dimitrov’s fluid movements and technical precision resonate deeply with Shelton, who values the artistic side of tennis. “Grigor plays tennis beautifully. His technique reminds me of Federer’s—the slice backhand, the polished serve, each shot finely tuned. That’s why I love watching him,” Shelton said.

Dimitrov’s elegance on the court, combined with his technical skill, makes him a joy to watch and a significant influence on Shelton’s tennis appreciation.

Locker Room Exchange with Stan Wawrinka

Beyond admiring his peers, Shelton recently had a memorable encounter with Swiss tennis legend Stan Wawrinka at the Swiss Indoors in Basel. After defeating Wawrinka in a competitive match, Shelton shared a light-hearted moment from their pre-match conversation. “We joked in the locker room about how he’s been on the tour as long as I’ve been alive,” Shelton laughed. He went on to praise Wawrinka’s impact on the sport, adding, “It’s incredible to see a country rally behind a guy like that, who’s been such an icon.”

This playful yet respectful exchange highlighted Shelton’s appreciation for Wawrinka’s experience and legacy.