Ben Shelton has recently made notable improvements in his backhand, a development that has sparked hope for a successful run at the 2025 US Open. This evolution comes despite recent setbacks, including a semifinal loss at the Citi Open, and reflects significant technical adjustments made during the offseason. Known for his aggressive style and powerful forehand, Shelton’s renewed backhand has become a critical element in his game as he prepares for the North American hardcourt season.
Shelton, mentored by his father and coach Bryan Shelton, has long been recognized for his aggressive net play and formidable serve, with his forehand often being his primary weapon. However, the backhand was considered reliable but not a key strength until recent months when both he and Bryan focused on refining the stroke during the offseason. By analyzing the swing paths and techniques of the most effective backhands on the ATP Tour, they identified a grip issue that previously limited Shelton’s potential.
According to Bryan Shelton, the challenge was that Ben sometimes opened his grip too much at the backhand, reducing control and power, whereas a more closed grip would enhance his ability to shape shots and maintain ball speed. This subtle, yet impactful, change has evidently paid off, with Shelton’s backhand showing increased spin, pace, and versatility in recent matches.
Expert Praise Highlights Shelton’s Backhand Advancement
Shelton’s transformation drew attention during his semifinal clash against fellow American Frances Tiafoe, where his backhand played a pivotal role despite ultimately losing the match. Tennis veterans Sam Querrey and John Isner discussed Shelton’s remarkable shots in a recent podcast episode, emphasizing the impressive quality of his backhand during that contest.
“Did you see that return that Shelton hit like 10 feet behind the baseline? That’s the hardest return I’ve ever seen anyone hit, I think maybe in tennis.” —Sam Querrey
“That return was ridiculous, and that was some of the best tennis I think I’ve ever seen being played. That match against Frances, the way he was hitting his backhand in particular, just so many RPMs on his backhand in that match.” —John Isner
Isner acknowledged Shelton’s loss to Alejandro Davidovich Fokina following his impressive display against Tiafoe but stressed the significant confidence Shelton can draw from his recent performances. He predicted that Shelton’s improved backhand would make him a formidable threat in upcoming hardcourt events like Toronto, Cincinnati, and especially the US Open, where Shelton has historically performed well.
“He’s going to be nasty in Toronto and Cincinnati and especially, the US Open. We know how he does in the Grand Slams…He’s not going to have a day like that on his backhand every single day, but that wing is improving a lot, I think, just by virtue of being on the match court and players trying to pick on that wing. So, it’s just improving a lot. I’m really impressed with Ben,” —John Isner
Ben Shelton Assesses His Own Backhand Improvements
Following his second-round win over Rinky Hijikata at Wimbledon 2025, Shelton himself reflected on the strides he’s made with his backhand. He highlighted his enhanced ability to handle pace, generate topspin, and execute precise passing shots, marking the shot as a key part of his ongoing development. However, Shelton remains humble about his progress, emphasizing that there is still work required to reach his desired level.
“My backhand has improved a lot, especially my ability to deal with pace to the backhand, hitting low balls off the backhand, being able to put topspin on the backhand sometimes, and hit passing shots.” —Ben Shelton
This candid assessment underscores Shelton’s determination and resilience as he continues to evolve his game in preparation for the demanding upcoming tournaments.
Reflecting on the Setback Against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina
Despite his backhand advancements, Shelton faced a challenging defeat to Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the semifinals of the Citi Open, marking his third consecutive loss to the Spaniard on the ATP Tour. This loss, while disappointing, did not halt Shelton’s climb up the ATP Rankings, where he recently reached a career-high No. 7. This ranking boost is encouraging as he heads into the critical US Open season.
Shelton described the match against Fokina as a difficult contest in which he struggled with his serve and movement, two factors that weighed heavily on his overall performance. Despite hitting seven aces, he also committed five double faults, indicating inconsistency that may need addressing before his next tournaments. Shelton also praised Fokina’s ability to switch from defense to offense and his remarkable court coverage during their match.
“I struggled with my serve from the start. I didn’t think that I was moving great, and those two things kinda weighed on the rest of my game.” —Ben Shelton
These challenges underline the areas Shelton must focus on improving to compete consistently at the highest level, especially as he prepares for the upcoming Canadian Open and US Open.
Outlook for Shelton Amidst High Expectations
Looking ahead, Shelton’s improved backhand comes at a crucial time as he positions himself as a potential contender in the US Open and other major hardcourt events. His ability to maintain and build upon this technical progress will be essential, especially given the intense competition on the ATP Tour. The US Open holds special significance for Shelton, who aims to surpass his previous best semifinal showing at the tournament in 2023 and advance further than his third-round finish last year.
“The biggest goal is the US Open, but I love all the early tournaments, lead-up tournaments in the U.S. swing…I always say I want to go one step deeper than I went the year before, and that’s not always the case, but yeah, I hope to have some good results in this U.S. swing,” —Ben Shelton
This ambition, combined with his evolving backhand and growing experience, fuels optimism among tennis insiders about his future prospects. The technical improvements, particularly on the backhand side, might be the key differentiator that helps Shelton handle the pressures of Grand Slam competition and challenging tour matches.
Significance and Expectations for Upcoming Matches
Ben Shelton’s backhand progression represents a critical step in his development as a well-rounded player capable of competing against tennis’s elite. The offseason adjustments, reinforced by high praise from peers like John Isner and Sam Querrey, suggest that Shelton’s backhand could become a weapon rather than a vulnerability. However, the mixed outcomes in recent matches reveal that he must sustain these improvements under pressure, while managing his serve and movement more effectively.
As Shelton prepares for the Toronto and Cincinnati Masters, followed by the US Open, his performances will reveal whether this technical breakthrough translates consistently into match success. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if Shelton’s backhand can help him move beyond his previous limits and rival the top contenders. Despite challenges and moments of struggle, Shelton’s resilience and focused work on his game provide a hopeful narrative heading into one of the most important stretches of his tennis career.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Ben Shelton have cupping marks?
A. Grio explains that cupping is a therapy thought to relieve negative pressure from the body. It is part of traditional Chinese medicine. Many athletes use cupping to improve blood flow, lessen muscle stiffness and pain, and help muscles recover better between games, according to Grio.
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. Sponsorships. By March 2023, Shelton has clothing and shoe sponsorship from On, and uses Yonex racquets.