"My favourite has always been Roger Federer": Ben Shelton reveals more thoughts on Big Three and picks best American player

Ben Shelton recently shared his thoughts on the Big Three of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, while also giving his opinion on the best American men's player.

21-year-old Shelton has had a breakthrough season this year, reaching the semi-final of the 2023 US Open. He then went on to win his first ATP Tour-level title at the Japan Open last week.

Recently, the rising talent weighed in on the GOAT debate, saying that his personal favorite of the Big Three is Federer. The American is sponsored by sportswear brand On, which is backed by the Swiss tennis legend who owns shares in the company.

Shelton was asked to add to the debate about which of the famous trio was the GOAT, to which he gave a very diplomatic answer, praising all three in turn.

"I studied Nadal and tried to steal some secrets from him," he revealed.

"But my favorite has always been Roger. Novak Djokovic? In three years he will still be a top 5, he will still win tournaments," he added.

In the same interview, Shelton opened up on his respect for his father and coach Bryan, who was a professional tennis player himself from 1989 to 1997. 

The 57-year-old recently stepped down from his role as head coach of the Florida Gators men's tennis team in order to coach his son full time, and has been seen guiding the younger Shelton at several key tournaments on the ATP Tour.

Shelton revealed that he looked up to his father as a former American tennis player, and disclosed his favorite of the tennis legends from his home country.

"If I have to go beyond the family circle, then I say Andy Roddick," he said. Former World No. 1 Roddick won the US Open in 2003 and reached two Wimbledon finals.