Ben Shelton is making waves on the tennis courts with his powerful game and a growing fanbase. Born into a family of athletes, his journey is marked by a mix of ambition and natural talent. His captivating rise has everyone talking.

Beyond the fierce serves and net-charging volleys, his off-court life is equally intriguing. Family ties, love life whispers and the guidance of a trusted coach have shaped his path. His story blends athletic brilliance with personal charm.

As his star continues to ascend, many wonder what’s next for this tennis phenom. From his roots to the bright lights of the tour, his tale is one of grit, passion and the kind of promise that keeps the tennis world on its toes.

How old is Ben Shelton?

Born on October 9, 2002, in Atlanta, Ben Shelton is 22 years old as of May 2025. Despite his youth, he has rapidly ascended the tennis ranks, capturing attention with his dynamic play and charismatic presence.

Ben Shelton of the United States celebrates after defeating Frances Tiafoe of the United States during their Men’s Singles Quarterfinal match on Day Nine of the 2023 US Open. (Source: Elsa/Getty Images)

His breakthrough performances at the 2023 US Open and the 2025 Australian Open, where he reached the semifinals in both, underscore his potential to become a mainstay in the sport.

How tall is Ben Shelton?

Standing at 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm), Ben Shelton’s height is a significant asset on the court. His stature contributes to a powerful serve and an imposing baseline game, allowing him to dominate rallies and apply pressure on opponents.

Ben Shelton’s family

Ben hails from a family deeply rooted in tennis. His father, Bryan Shelton, is a former professional player who achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of No. 55 and later transitioned into coaching, leading collegiate teams to national championships.

Ben’s mother, Lisa Witsken Shelton, was a top junior player and the sister of the late Todd Witsken, a former top-50 ATP player. His sister, Emma Shelton, also played collegiate tennis at the University of Florida.

Ben Shelton’s nationality

Ben Shelton is American, born in Georgia and raised in Gainesville, Florida. His upbringing in the U.S. has been integral to his development as a player, with access to competitive collegiate tennis and national training programs.

Ben Shelton of the United States reacts on the floor after failing to return a shot against Lorenzo Musetti of Italy in the Men’s Singles Third Round match of the 2025 Australian Open. (Source: Hannah Peters/Getty Images)

Is Ben Shelton single?

As of early 2025, Ben Shelton is single. He previously dated American heptathlete Anna Hall, but the couple has since parted ways. He has expressed that he is currently prioritizing his personal growth and professional aspirations.

Who is the coach of Ben Shelton?

Ben’s coaching team is spearheaded by his father, Bryan, who reached a career-high ATP ranking of No. 55 in the 1990s, transitioned from coaching at the University of Florida to join him full-time on the tour.

To complement this father-son dynamic, he also works with Dean Goldfine, a veteran coach with experience guiding top players like Andy Roddick and Todd Martin. Goldfine joined Shelton’s team as a traveling coach in 2022, bringing a strategic edge that has helped refine his game on the pro circuit.

Ben Shelton’s career highlights

  • 2023 Australian Open Quarterfinals: In his debut at the Australian Open, Shelton advanced to the quarterfinals, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level early in his career.
  • 2023 US Open Semifinals: Shelton’s impressive run to the semifinals at the US Open marked him as one of the youngest Americans to reach this stage since 1992, highlighting his growing prowess on the Grand Slam stage.
  • First ATP Title in Tokyo (2023): Shelton clinched his maiden ATP title at the Japan Open, defeating Aslan Karatsev in the final. This victory propelled him into the Top 15 of the ATP rankings, a significant leap from his position at the start of the year.
  • Second ATP Title in Houston (2024): Continuing his upward trajectory, Shelton secured his second ATP title at the U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championships in Houston, overcoming Frances Tiafoe in a hard-fought final. This win also placed the Shelton duo among the rare father-son pairs to both win multiple tour-level titles in the Open Era.