"It's easy to be self centred": Shelton wants to keep core values as a tennis player and not be ego driven

Ben Shelton reflected on the importance of maintaining his values after advancing to the fourth round of the US Open.

The young American is once again having a remarkable tournament at a Grand Slam. Shelton burst onto the global tennis scene by surprising everyone at the Australian Open and reaching the quarterfinals while ranked as the world No. 89.

At just 20 years old, he hasn't had consistent results this year, but he's once again showcasing his talent, this time on home turf at the 2023 US Open, where he has already reached the fourth round. Shelton defeated Pedro Cachín (1-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2), Dominic Thiem (7-6, 1-0, ret.), and Aslan Karatsev (6-4, 3-6, 6-2, 6-0).

While discussing his on-court strategies, Shelton reflected on the importance of character.

"I think that's something that's really important for me, is to make sure I'm still being a good person," he said.

"It's easy to be self-centered out here on this tour," he said. "Everything revolves around the players. You have a team around you. It's easy to become self-centered."

"I think college taught me a lot about being a better person and being good to the people around me, not just focusing on myself and my own success or personal gain," he added.

Shelton also spoke about the significance of securing victories in Grand Slam tournaments and maintaining a well-planned schedule to continue his growth as a tennis player:

"Every time you get a win at a major, it's like a big relief," he said.

"I've kind of figured out the things that I like and how to find that right balance."

The American is one of the four local talents still in contention, alongside Taylor Fritz, Frances Tiafoe, and Tommy Paul. In the fourth round, he will face the wild card entrant, world No. 110 Rinky Hijikata.