American tennis star Ben Shelton sparked controversy with a sharp critique of the traditional British breakfast while attending Wimbledon. The World No. 10 offered a harsh zero out of ten rating, specifically questioning the inclusion of baked beans in the meal. Shelton’s blunt remarks quickly attracted attention as he prepared for his quarterfinal match against World No. 1 Jannik Sinner.
Mixed Reactions to British Cuisine and London Driving
During a candid Q&A session with BBC Sport, the 23-year-old athlete shared his opinions on several iconic British foods. He awarded fish and chips a moderate 7.5 out of 10 but described the full English breakfast as “terrible,” emphasizing his confusion over why beans are part of it. Outside of food, Shelton also expressed frustration with London’s traffic, giving the city’s roads a zero rating. He labeled London the
“worst place to drive in the world,”
criticizing the narrow streets and on-street parking that cause frequent congestion and complicate travel by car.
London’s Character Earns a Respectful Yet Critical Score
Despite his criticisms of the cuisine and city driving conditions, Shelton acknowledged London’s appeal, awarding it a respectable 7 out of 10 overall. He highlighted the driving environment as a major drawback that lowered the city’s rating in his view. Shelton’s remarks reveal the challenges faced by visitors adjusting to London’s unique culture and infrastructure during a high-pressure tournament.
Impact of Shelton’s Commentary on British Culture Perception
As Shelton continues his rise in the tennis world, his outspoken opinions off the court are generating discussion regarding British traditions and city life. His critical but honest views shed light on the sometimes jarring experiences for visitors navigating both the local food scene and urban logistics. These comments deepen the conversation around cultural differences amidst the global spotlight of Wimbledon.
“worst place to drive in the world.”
—Ben Shelton, Tennis Star
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Ben Shelton sponsored by Rolex?
A. In 2024, Ben Shelton was chosen as a representative for Rolex.