Former American pro Steve Johnson recently highlighted why Ben Shelton’s father, Bryan Shelton, is the leading contender for the ATP Coach of the Year award. Other prominent nominees include the coaches of world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz and world No. 2 Jannik Sinner, among others.
Notably, Johnson’s remarks come amid ongoing debate over Bryan Shelton’s inclusion in the nomination list.
Bryan Shelton Tipped for ATP Coach of the Year Amid Debate on Nomination
Shelton has quickly forged a reputation as one of the most dynamic and rapidly rising players on the ATP Tour. His explosive athleticism, thunderous serve, and strong forehand are widely discussed by the fans and pundits alike. He capped his 2025 campaign with a solid 40–24 record and a breakthrough achievement, winning his first Masters 1000 title at the Toronto event.
Although his momentum dipped following a shoulder injury at the US Open, Shelton still climbed to a career-high world No. 5 earlier this month and also made his debut at the ATP Finals in Turin.
Moreover, Shelton’s rapid rise should be closely tied to the influence of his father and coach, Bryan Shelton. The 59-year-old began coaching his son full-time in June 2023 after stepping down as head coach of the University of Florida men’s team. He had also guided the 23-year-old through his college years, helping him capture the 2022 NCAA singles title.
Apart from the milestones mentioned above, Ben Shelton also won the ATP 500 title in Tokyo and the ATP 250 event in Houston, all under the guidance of his father.
On a recent episode of the Nothing Major podcast, former American pros Sam Querrey, John Isner, Steve Johnson, and Jack Sock weighed in on several topics, including their choice for Coach of the Year. When Johnson was asked for his pick, he responded:
“I would give to Bryan Shelton, Ben’s dad, because it felt as if like there was things missing in his game. Glaring weaknesses, for a bit of time. We’re talking a year ago, two years ago that are now strengths or they’re no longer weaknesses,” he said.
The 35-year-old added that the father–son duo had worked through every soft spot in Ben Shelton’s game and sharpened his overall level. That collective improvement, he said, is why Bryan earned his vote.
“So, they’ve done a great job of sharing up those mistakes. Mistakes, maybe the wrong word, but like those little soft spots in his game and now there’s no weaknesses. So, for me, I think I’m going to give it to Bryan Shelton, just for what he’s done with Ben and having him grow on tour and still getting better and better each time he goes out there,” he added.
It is worth noting that Bryan’s nomination sparked widespread debate among fans. While many supported the decision, crediting him for Ben Shelton’s rapid rise, others viewed his inclusion as an unusual choice.
Bryan is nominated alongside several high-profile coaches, including Darren Cahill and Simone Vagnozzi for Jannik Sinner, Juan Carlos Ferrero and Samuel López for Carlos Alcaraz, Frederic Fontang for Félix Auger-Aliassime, and Benjamin Balleret for Valentin Vacherot.
