Tennis legend John McEnroe recently shared his insights on the chances of American players Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe capturing a Major title soon, highlighting both their strengths and critical areas for growth. Speaking to TNT Sports ahead of the 2025 French Open, McEnroe praised Shelton as the most promising candidate among his countrymen but emphasized the urgent need for additional coaching support to unlock his full potential. At the same time, he pointed out that Tiafoe’s charismatic nature might be holding him back from developing the ruthless mindset necessary to win at the highest level.
John McEnroe, a seven-time Major winner and former World No. 1, singled out Ben Shelton—the world No. 13—as “the best pick” from the current American men’s field likely to break the country’s Major drought, which has lasted since the 2003 US Open. While Shelton’s background as a multi-sport athlete and collegiate tennis star has helped him mature steadily, McEnroe believes bringing in an outside coach alongside his father Bryan, who currently guides him, might be the crucial step he needs to make the leap from contender to champion.
“Ben Shelton. I like his story because he played football as a kid,” McEnroe commented. “He went to college for a couple of years, won as a sophomore. So he’s sort of maturing in a nice way, improving… but his dad coaches him, maybe he could bring a part-time coach on. Maybe he’s on the TNT set right about now to try to get him over the hump, but he would be the best [option].”
McEnroe also expressed his affection for Frances Tiafoe, ranked No. 15 globally, but was clear about the American’s current limitation. “I love Tiafoe. I call Frances, he’s what a great mate [is],” McEnroe said. “I call him the hugger because he’s too busy liking everybody as opposed to getting that killer instinct. I’m hoping that it can be developed.” In McEnroe’s eyes, cultivating this killer instinct—an intense focus and competitiveness—is essential for Tiafoe to convert his undeniable talent into Major glory.
The conversation didn’t stop with Shelton and Tiafoe. McEnroe also weighed in on Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul, two other American contenders expected to challenge for top honors but facing their distinct challenges. Fritz, world No. 4, was acknowledged as a “great ballstriker” but noted to lack the same level of athleticism as some of his peers. Meanwhile, Tommy Paul, ranked just outside the top ten, earned praise for his consistency and established presence in Grand Slam quarterfinals.
“Tommy Paul is a great American player. He’s currently 10 or 11 in the world,” McEnroe remarked. “Taylor Fritz is 4 in the world, great ballstriker, not quite as athletic as those other guys. Game’s a lot faster than it used to be.”
McEnroe’s comments come at a crucial moment, as American men’s tennis has been eagerly awaiting a Major breakthrough. With players like Shelton, Tiafoe, Fritz, and Paul all showing flashes of brilliance in recent years—three of them reaching semifinals multiple times since 2022—there is palpable excitement but also pressure to end a drought that stretches back two decades. The 2025 French Open looms large as an opportunity for these players to demonstrate growth, resilience, and the ability to seize the moment on one of tennis’s grandest stages.
The significance of McEnroe’s insights lies in their blend of hope and realism, urging these talented athletes to address specific challenges if they wish to rewrite American tennis history. Shelton’s potential appears immense, but the move to bring in diverse coaching perspectives might provide the edge needed to cross the finish line. Meanwhile, if Tiafoe can develop the feared “killer instinct” McEnroe referenced, his longtime promise could finally translate into a Major trophy.
As the tennis world watches with intense anticipation, these players’ responses to expert advice and their ability to adapt under pressure will shape not only their careers but also the future of American men’s tennis. The coming months appear critical, with optimism fueling fans and players alike, all hoping for a breakthrough that can once again make American tennis a dominant force on the global stage.