The ATP rankings were revised following tournaments in Washington D.C., Umag, and Kitzbuhel, resulting in notable shifts across the board. Alex de Minaur claimed the Washington Open title after defeating Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, who missed three championship points in a narrow loss. In Umag, Italian player Luciano Darderi secured his second consecutive title, surpassing Jannik Sinner’s 2025 wins. Meanwhile, Alexander Bublik continued his impressive streak by capturing his third title this season in Kitzbuhel. These events have influenced the ATP rankings with changes not only for the winners but also for other players competing in these tournaments.
Ben Shelton Achieves New Career-High ATP Ranking
Despite a semifinal defeat to Davidovich Fokina at the Washington Open, Ben Shelton has risen to a career-best world number seven in the latest ATP rankings. This movement marks a one-spot climb this week, highlighting his growing status in men’s tennis. While many top-10 players were absent from competition, Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner maintains a commanding number one position, leading by over 3,400 points ahead of Carlos Alcaraz. Three players advanced within the top 10 this week, including Washington Open winner Alex de Minaur, who moved up five places to number eight. De Minaur’s highest ranking came last July when he reached number six globally.
Other players making significant strides include Alexander Bublik and Luciano Darderi, who have both benefited from consecutive tournament victories. Bublik jumped five spots to sit at world number 25, securing a seed for the upcoming US Open, while Darderi climbed 11 places to world number 35, approaching seed contention.
Current Standings in the Race for the ATP Finals
Alongside the overall ATP rankings, attention is also focused on the race toward the year-end ATP Finals in Turin. Although Jannik Sinner leads the ATP rankings, it is Roland Garros champion Carlos Alcaraz who tops the qualifications race and has already secured his place at the event. Sinner closely trails, with Novak Djokovic in third, creating a gap to the rest of the field. Alex de Minaur, fresh off his Washington Open victory, currently holds the final qualifying spot for the ATP Finals. Ben Shelton is just outside the top eight, positioned ninth, trailing de Minaur by a slim margin of 125 ranking points, putting him within striking distance of qualification.
Implications for Upcoming Major Events and Player Momentum
Ben Shelton’s rise to a career-high ATP ranking reflects his steady progression on the professional circuit and positions him as a key contender in future competitions. His proximity to the ATP Finals qualification places added importance on his upcoming performances. Similarly, the movement of players like de Minaur, Bublik, and Darderi illustrates the dynamic nature of this season’s rankings, with multiple athletes gaining ground ahead of major tournaments like the US Open. The ongoing shifts highlight a competitive landscape where consistent success is vital for securing top tournament seedings and year-end honors.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Ben Shelton have cupping marks?
A. As explained by Grio, cupping is a type of therapy thought to release negative pressure from the body. It is part of traditional Chinese medicine. Athletes use it to enhance blood flow, reduce muscle stiffness and pain, and promote recovery between games.
Q. Is Ben Shelton sponsored by Rolex?
A. In 2024, Ben Shelton was chosen as a Rolex Testimonee.
Q. What is Ben Shelton’s brand?
A. As of March 2023, Shelton has sponsorship deals with On for his clothing and footwear and Yonex for his tennis racquets.