Former top-10 player and tennis analyst Andrea Petkovic has expressed confidence in Ben Shelton’s chances at the 2025 Mubadala Citi DC Open after his impressive opening-round victory. Shelton, an emerging American talent, displayed dominant form in his first match, prompting Petkovic to predict that he could ultimately win the tournament in Washington, D.C.

Petkovic’s observation highlights Shelton’s growing momentum in the tennis world, emphasizing his potential to achieve major success at this stage of his career.

Ben Shelton Builds on Experience to Advance in Third Appearance

Currently the fourth seed at the tournament, Ben Shelton is making his third consecutive appearance in Washington, D.C. After reaching the semifinals at the 2024 edition, he has proven his ability to perform well on the city’s hard courts. Shelton began the 2025 event by defeating fellow American Mackenzie McDonald in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4, securing a place in the third round.

In his next match, Shelton is set to face the 15th-seeded Canadian Gabriel Diallo, marking their first ATP Tour meeting. The winner will then take on either ninth seed Flavio Cobolli or sixth seed Frances Tiafoe. Interestingly, Shelton partnered with Tiafoe in doubles at this event, but the pair were eliminated in the first round by the Australian duo of John Peers and Matthew Ebden.

On ‘The Rennae Stubbs Tennis Podcast,’ Petkovic confidently stated,

I think Ben Shelton might win Washington DC,

emphasizing the rapid growth she has witnessed in his game over recent seasons.

Petkovic Highlights Shelton’s Rapid Evolution as a Player

Having retired from professional tennis in 2022, Andrea Petkovic transitioned to broadcasting and commentary. From this vantage point, she has carefully followed Shelton’s progress and noted a significant transformation. Early in his career, Shelton showed immense raw talent but lacked consistency. Petkovic remarked,

When he came up on the scene, I think we all saw the raw potential that he possesses,

and added,

But he was still kind of all over the place. And I was thinking about this yesterday after he finished the match, I think he’s the player that has improved the most in the last two years from completely raw to a professional solid tennis player who I think soon will have major accomplishments.

Beyond improved results, Petkovic underscored Shelton’s enhanced strategic approach and physical conditioning. She stated,

I don’t know why. I just think the way he constructs the points and how he’s gotten better athletically, I really see incredible improvements with him.

Her remarks reflect a broad recognition among tennis insiders that Shelton has transformed his natural power and athleticism into a consistent, competitive edge. Petkovic summed up Shelton’s capabilities during his narrow loss to Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon quarterfinals by saying,

The thing with Ben is, if he plays well, I think he can beat anybody,

and recalled,

The reason I say that, I think I called his match with Jannik Sinner in the quarters of Wimbledon, and there were just margins separating the two. Ben was playing so well.

The Outlook for Ben Shelton at the Citi Open

With his strong start and the experience gained from previous deep runs in Washington, D.C., Shelton appears poised to continue his upward trajectory in the 2025 Mubadala Citi DC Open. His blend of athleticism, refined tactics, and building confidence has caught the attention of analysts like Petkovic, who view him as a legitimate threat to capture the title.

Should Shelton maintain his high level of play in upcoming rounds against opponents like Gabriel Diallo and potentially Frances Tiafoe or Flavio Cobolli, he could add a significant trophy to his burgeoning career. This possibility excites fans and tennis insiders who have followed his rapid rise and expect continued breakthroughs in major tournaments.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Is Ben Shelton sponsored by Rolex?

A. In 2024, Ben Shelton was chosen to be a Rolex Testimonee.

Q. What is Ben Shelton’s brand?

A. Sponsors. As of March 2023, Shelton has deals with On for his clothing and shoes, and Yonex for his racquets.