America’s young tennis sensation Ben Shelton believes his
unique style of play gives him an edge in the upcoming US Open 2023 semifinal.
The 20-year-old is one of the most highly-rated youngsters in
the circuit but has still surpassed everyone’s expectations as he booked his
place in the last four of the mega-event after defeating fellow American Frances Tiafoe
with a score of 6-2, 3-6, 7-6, 6-2.
Shelton, who will be playing in his first-ever Grand Slam semifinal,
will go up against Serbia’s legendary tennis star Novak Djokovic.
Despite being stacked against the odds in a match against
one of the all-time greats, the Atlanta-born believes he has a chance because
of his unique style of play.
"I also think that, you know, it's an advantage with my
game style playing someone who's never played me before,” he said. “I think
that I can bring some things to the table that maybe you don't see in your
normal match that you play on the ATP Tour.
"So I'm definitely going to try to
bring some things to the table that are different and hopefully disruptive.”
The much-awaited contest between Shelton and the 23-time
Grand Slam winner and the current world number two will take place on Friday in
New York.
Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.
He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.
In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.