An emotional moment unfolded on Monday when American tennis player Chris Eubanks announced his retirement from professional tennis in an Instagram post. His message sparked an outpouring of reactions across the tennis world from stars including Coco Gauff, Naomi Osaka, and Taylor Townsend.
Most recently, his close friend and compatriot Ben Shelton shared a heartfelt message of his own.
After Coco Gauff, Ben Shelton Pens a Heartfelt Message for Chris Eubanks Post-Retirement
Eubanks shared a carousel of images on Instagram, spanning cherished childhood moments to highlights from his professional career. He paired the photos with a heartfelt message reflecting on his achievements before announcing his retirement.
“If you had told this little boy from the Southside of Atlanta that he would’ve accomplished all that he did, he wouldn’t believe you. 2 Time ACC Player of the Year? Yeah right. Wimbledon Quarter-finalist? No chance. An Olympian? Unfathomable. I was given opportunity to travel around the world and form incredible relationships all while fulfilling a lifelong dream of playing professional tennis….” He captioned.Â
“I can’t put into words how blessed I have been. Is this absolutely the end?! Tough to say for certain, but if it is, WHOOPTY DOO!!! It’s been an incredible ride,” he concluded.
Several top players, as noted, wished him the best for the future, and two-time Grand Slam champion Coco Gauff was no exception. “From union crossing courts in atl to centre court wimbledon. 🦒 4 lifeeee,” she shared Eubanks’ post on her Instagram story and wrote.
Joining the wave of tributes was Eubanks’ close friend and World No. 9 Ben Shelton, who celebrated the fond memories they’ve shared and expressed his excitement for what lies ahead in the next chapter.
“Happy to share a million memories with you on your journey. Excited for your next chapter,” he wrote on his Instagram story. The 29-year-old American reciprocated his love by re-sharing Shelton’s Instagram story.
Shelton, Eubanks, and Gauff share a close bond, evident in their outings and Shelton’s comments during the 2025 Australian Open. The trio also enjoys escape rooms and visited one in Melbourne earlier this year. That was when Shelton dismissed rumors of dating Gauff and mentioned that Eubanks wasn’t happy about being cropped out of those photos.
Eubanks and Shelton are level in their ATP rivalry at 1–1, but their familiarity goes much deeper. They first met on the Challenger circuit, where Shelton held the advantage. He defeated Eubanks in both of their clashes, the finals in Charlottesville and Knoxville. Those wins secured the first two Challenger titles of Shelton’s career. They have also partnered in doubles on the ATP Tour, further strengthening their relationship as competitors and friends.
