Ben Shelton’s recent ascent in the tennis world has captured the attention of fans and experts alike. At just 22 years old, the American player is quickly establishing himself as a formidable force, with his quarterfinal appearance at Wimbledon serving as a clear signal of his growing potential. What sets Shelton apart, according to seasoned professionals, is his evolving backhand—a shot that is transforming from a reliable stroke into a true weapon on the court.

Jack Sock, a former top-10 ATP player and respected voice in the tennis community, recently shed light on Shelton’s rapid progress during an episode of the Nothing Major podcast. Sock highlighted that while Shelton’s serve and forehand have always been strong components of his game, his backhand is what is making the biggest difference this year. “His serve and forehand are always going to be strong suits for him,” Sock explained. “But if that backhand is becoming a weapon, which it looks like it is, at times he can literally use it as a weapon and not have to run around it as much.” This development allows Shelton to maintain tactical flexibility and reduces the predictability of his play, which can be a significant advantage against top-tier opponents.

Historically, many great champions have relied on weaponizing one particular shot to carve their path to the top. For example, Roger Federer’s forehand and Rafael Nadal’s heavy topspin left-handed forehand became signature shots that defined their careers. Similarly, Novak Djokovic’s backhand, especially his backhand down the line, is often credited with his relentless baseline dominance. Shelton’s backhand, some speculate, could become a defining characteristic of his style as he matures, giving him a competitive edge reminiscent of these champions. In fact, history has shown that players who can turn a once secondary shot into a primary weapon often gain a strategic advantage that propels them into the upper echelons of the sport.

Another veteran American player, John Isner, has also expressed admiration for Shelton’s trajectory. On the same podcast, Isner remarked on Shelton’s progress and potential. Although Shelton fell short of his best in the semifinals of a recent tournament, Isner is confident that the young prodigy’s trajectory points upwards. “I am really impressed with Ben,” Isner said. “He is obviously top 10, but he is inching closer in my mind to the ultimate goal.” Isner’s comments reflect a broader consensus among tennis insiders who view Shelton as a player on the cusp of breaking into the very elite.

Shelton’s meteoric rise comes at an interesting time in American men’s tennis. For years, the United States boasted a dominant presence on the ATP Tour with players like Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, and later Andy Roddick all winning Grand Slam titles. However, the last decade witnessed a relative drought at the top level, with the likes of Djokovic, Nadal, and Federer controlling the Grand Slam landscape. Now, Shelton represents a new generation eager to reclaim American prominence on the world stage, bringing a combination of youthful energy and a modern, aggressive playing style.

Looking ahead, Shelton faces exciting challenges. His upcoming match against Adrian Mannarino at the Montreal Open offers a prime opportunity to test his skills against an experienced, crafty opponent known for his defensive play and court craft. Success against Mannarino could bolster Shelton’s confidence as he prepares for the US Open—one of the year’s most significant tournaments and a stage where he could make a breakthrough.

Mental toughness will be critical for Shelton as he navigates the pressures of high-stakes matches. Tennis history is full of young talents who faltered under the spotlight, but Shelton’s composure and determination have already earned him respect within the pro circuit. His ability to maintain focus and harness his physical skills could well be the differentiator that propels him forward.

With the hardcourt season underway and major tournaments looming, all eyes will be on Shelton. If his backhand continues to improve and he can integrate it seamlessly into his overall game, he might not only challenge the current titans of tennis but also carve his own legacy. Perhaps by the US Open in September, we will witness Shelton holding his first Grand Slam trophy—an emblem of a new chapter in American tennis.