"This guy has got more upside than any other American I believe": McEnroe gives high praise to rising star Shelton after Quarter-Final set

Former world number one John McEnroe believes that young tennis sensation Ben Shelton has the highest ceiling out of all the American players in the ATP circuit.

The 20-year-old is one of the most highly-rated youngsters alongside the current world number one Carlos Alcaraz and Italy’s Jannik Sinner in the circuit.

McEnroe, while talking to Eurosport, stated that Shelton — who is currently taking part in the US Open 2023 — has the highest ceiling out of all the American players currently playing in the ATP circuit.

"The serve is amazing," said the 64-year-old. "He's a great kid, he looks to be in really good shape. He's finally come around, he's doing his thing. He got a little cocky here when he saw the 149mph. I would be too. That would be what I normally do in kilometres!

"This guy has got more upside than any other American I believe. I thought that in Australia. He's had some growing pains. But I tell you what, this guy is going to be the real deal."

Shelton has booked his place in the quarterfinal of the fourth and final Grand Slam of the year after beating fellow American Tommy Paul in the round of 16 with a score of 6-4, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 on Sunday.

He is now set to face another American player Frances Tiafoe in the last-eight encounter of the US Open on Tuesday.

Talking about that match, McEnroe, who won seven Grand Slams in his illustrious career including four US Open and three Wimbledon titles, was of the opinion that such encounters is ‘great’ for American tennis.

"It's great for American tennis to see two African-Americans," he said. "It's going to inspire a whole bunch of kids to go out there and play tennis. It's going to be fantastic for our sport here in America."