Ben Shelton is eyeing a major upset against Jannik Sinner in his first-ever Australian Open semifinal.
The 22-year-old American tennis player is all set to face the world’s No. 1 tennis star in his debut Australian Open semifinal on January 24, 2025. Ahead of the face-off with the two-time Grand Slam winner, Shelton acknowledged that it would be a tough match but also the best opportunity to showcase his skills.
Shelton said, “Obviously, Jannik, defending champion. We know what he’s done. A really tough match-up. I’m really looking forward to it. Any time you get to line up against the best in the world is a great opportunity to improve your game and see where you’re at, and that’s what Friday will be for me.”
Talking about his 2023 US Open semifinal experience, he revealed that over the years, he has reached a point where he no longer feels the need to take huge risks in big matches.
He added, “Lately, especially in the matches here, everything hasn’t been perfect. I had one good serving day out of my five matches. I’ve had to pick up the slack with everything else in my game. I think I’m a much better returner right now than in the past. I’m winning in different ways, for sure.”
The 20th-seeded player aims to “figure out ways” to make his opponent “uncomfortable” without playing at his upper limits and slapping powerful shots.
Furthermore, Shelton and Sinner have faced off five times, with the Atlanta native winning only once, at the 2023 Shanghai Masters.
