Ben Shelton recently shared a heartfelt note marking one month since the passing of his grandmother, Regina Ann Shelton, who died at the age of 90 on March 27 and was laid to rest in Alabama.
In his message, the American reflected on her lasting influence and the role she played in shaping his life. The tribute drew an outpouring of support, including messages from his girlfriend, Trinity Rodman, his sister, Emma Shelton, Corey Gauff, and others.
Ben Shelton Receives Trinity Rodman, Emma Shelton, and Others’ Support After Mourning Late Grandmother
Shelton most recently featured at the 2026 Madrid Open, where his campaign fell short of expectations with a second-round defeat to Dino Prižmić in three sets. Amid the quick turnaround ahead of the Italian Open, Shelton took a moment to share an emotional and heartfelt note in memory of his grandmother, who passed away last month.
His Instagram post featured a collection of photos spanning from his childhood to recent moments, accompanied by a heartfelt note in which he reflected on her generosity and the profound influence she had on his life, adding that he would never have played tennis without her.
“It’s been a difficult time for me to find the words, but I lost my grandmother last month, and my family and I celebrated her life yesterday at her home in Alabama. She was a beautiful woman who had more love in her heart than anyone I have ever met. She was a fighter until the very end. I could talk for days about the impact she’s had on me, and without her I would never be playing tennis, much less professionally,” he wrote.
The 23-year-old expressed deep grief over his loss but finds comfort in hearing how widely she impacted others. He believes she is at peace now and feels grateful for their time together.
“I’ve been feeling a lot of pain but seeing how many people she touched and hearing those stories yesterday brings me so much comfort. I know she’s in a better place now and I Thank God for every moment we shared together and I miss her every day. I love you Grandear ❤️🕊️,” he concluded.
View this post on Instagram
Soon after, the comments section filled with heartfelt reactions, including one from his sister Emma, who wrote, “she truly touched so many lives and her legacy lives on in all of us love you.” Meanwhile, Shelton’s girlfriend, NWSL star and Washington Spirit forward, Trinity Rodman, wrote, “I love you❤️ so much strength.”
MORE: Ben Shelton Targets ‘Damage’ on Clay to Shatter Brutal American Narrative at French Open
Furthermore, WTA world No. 3 Coco Gauff’s father commented, “my friend see you all soon.”
Former Grand Slam doubles champion Rennae Stubbs and former US Open champion Sloane Stephens also offered their condolences with a series of emojis. Notably, following his win over Adrian Mannarino at the Dallas Open earlier in February, Shelton shared that his grandmother had motivated him to fight through, as she was fighting her own battle at the time. Shelton currently holds a 17-6 win-loss record and would look to improve it at the Italian Open.
