The crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium knows what’s coming before Ben Shelton even hits his winner. The coiled tension, the explosive celebration, the roar that echoes through Queens. For most players, managing emotions is about staying calm. For Shelton, it’s about staying fired up.
As he prepares for another run at the US Open, the 22-year-old has discovered something crucial: his best tennis doesn’t come from suppressing his intensity; it comes from channeling it.
How Does Ben Shelton Use Emotion to Elevate His Game?
Shelton has already built a reputation as one of the most dynamic young stars on tour. His “phone call” celebration at the 2023 US Open became an instant viral moment, and his trademark roars and fist pumps continue to make him a fan favorite. While some players prefer to stay composed and hide their emotions, Shelton has embraced the opposite approach, arguing that it gives him the energy he needs to perform at the highest level.
In a pre-tournament press conference in New York, Shelton was asked about how he manages his emotions in the heat of competition. He explained that finding this balance was more of a challenge earlier in his career, but has since become a vital part of his identity on court.
“I think it was a little bit more of a thing for me when I was younger. I think I’m an entertainer at heart. But I have kind of figured out what state I need to be in to be locked in, but also having fun at the same time,” Shelton said.
He acknowledged that he cannot and does not want to play without emotion, recognizing it as fundamental to his success. “I’m never going to be the guy who is able to robotically go about my business and not change expression or show any emotion. I think that I play better when I do show some emotion.”
For Shelton, the key isn’t suppressing his natural instincts but finding the sweet spot where intensity meets enjoyment. “Everyone is completely different. But me finding that state where I compete the best and also enjoy myself is important. I feel like I think this summer kind of found that state where I want to be at.”
What Can Fans Expect From Shelton’s 2025 US Open Campaign?
Shelton will be making his fourth singles appearance in Flushing Meadows, where he is seeded sixth. The 2023 semifinalist will take on Peruvian qualifier Ignacio Buse in the first round, with the winner facing either Pablo Carreño Busta or qualifier Pablo Llamas Ruiz in the next round.
MORE: ‘This Is the One’ — Ben Shelton Sends Out a Clear Message on His Us Open Appearance
Meanwhile, Shelton also teamed up with compatriot Taylor Townsend in the mixed doubles event as a wildcard pair. They won their first round match against fourth seeds Amanda Anisimova and Holger Rune, 4‑2, 5‑4 (2), but lost in the quarterfinals to alternates Danielle Collins and Christian Harrison, 1‑4, 4‑5 (2).
