Ben Shelton
ON THE RECORD · 9 verbatim quotes · every quote source-verified
“Problem-solving has been the name of the game here,”
Ben Shelton · said 2026-09-11 · reported 2026-09-12
Shelton looked ahead to Sunday's final against Alexander Zverev, whom he has never beaten in five previous matches.
“Yes, I can think about how cool this moment is and what I’m playing for,”
Ben Shelton · said 2026-09-11 · reported 2026-09-12
Shelton discussed keeping the enormity of the occasion at arm's length after becoming the first Black American man to reach the US Open singles final since 1972.
“I‘m looking forward to the challenge, being able to problem-solve on Sunday. I know what I’m up against, and I’m also the most confident I’ve ever been in my game.”
Ben Shelton · said 2026-09-11 · reported 2026-09-12
Shelton expressed confidence ahead of his first grand slam meeting with Alexander Zverev in Sunday's final.
“I feel that I’m a different player. I feel like I have so many more tools. I feel like I know my identity, am comfortable in my own skin, and I know what it takes for me to be playing top-level tennis.”
Ben Shelton · said 2026-09-11 · reported 2026-09-12
Shelton pointed to his return game, baseline stability, and concentration as evidence of his evolution as a player.
“At the end of the day, I’m here in New York, I’m hanging out with my team, I’m with my homies playing a little bit of tennis and I’ve been able to downplay the moment pretty well.”
Ben Shelton · said 2026-09-11 · reported 2026-09-12
Shelton explained how he downplayed the moment of reaching his first grand slam final.
“I was honestly shocked with how calm I was out there today, especially towards the end of the match,”
Ben Shelton · said 2026-09-11 · reported 2026-09-12
Shelton reflected on his composure as the finish line approached in the semi-final against Tiafoe.
“Obviously we’re not done here. The job is not finished. Super excited to get another opportunity to go out there and show my best on Sunday.”
Ben Shelton · said 2026-09-11 · reported 2026-09-12
Shelton commented after reaching his first career grand slam final and ahead of Sunday's final against Alexander Zverev.
“Calm, confident, focused. I think that that’s what it takes to be in these positions and win at the highest level.”
Ben Shelton · said 2026-09-11 · reported 2026-09-12
Shelton described his mental state during the match and what it takes to win at the highest level.
“It’s amazing to be in this position,”
Ben Shelton · said 2026-09-11 · reported 2026-09-12
Shelton reached his first career grand slam final after defeating Frances Tiafoe in the US Open semi-final.