American tennis star Ben Shelton has opened up about the influence of social media trolls on his personal and professional life, stating they motivate him to achieve his goals on a daily basis.

The 20-year old is coming off a four-set victory over compatriot Tommy Paul in the fourth round of the 2023 US Open, and by doing so became the youngest American man in over 20 years to reach the US Open quarterfinals (Roddick in 2002).

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Shelton not bothered by comments from trolls, claims they inspire him

In a post-match interview after his round of 16 win, Shelton admitted he was unfazed by comments criticizing his rise on the ATP Tour.

"I'm not a guy who gets frightened or scared by comments on social media," he said. "When people are saying negative things about me, that just drives me. It's not something that I ever worry about.

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"If I go to sleep at night thinking about it, it's more anger than me being sad. That helps me get out of bed and go to work every single day, work hard to get to where I want to be. I like seeing those comments sometimes or messages or doubters. I think that it's something that helps fuel me."

The World No.7 will face fellow American Frances Tiafoe in the quarterfinals, with the latter hoping to make a return to the semifinals after doing so last year.