Ben Shelton has called out ESPN for misidentifying his shout-out to his friend after his first-round win at the 2024 US Open. The American expressed frustration, lamenting the inevitability of such mistakes by the press during Grand Slam events.
Shelton ended Dominic Thiem’s campaign at the final US Open of his career, claiming a dominant 6-4, 6-2, 6-2 win over the Austrian in their blockbuster opening-round clash.
Speaking in his on-court interview, Ben Shelton expressed his gratitude for the electrifying atmosphere at Arthur Ashe Stadium, crediting the fans for their passionate energy.
“I love being out here in New York. Not much better atmosphere than being out here on Ashe so thank all you guys, you guys brought the energy day one. I’m glad I had the opportunity to open it up here first match with Domi,” he said.
The 21-year-old also thanked his coaching team and his loved ones in his players box for cheering him on, giving a special shoutout to his friend Nick for coming out to support him, even though he had an exam later that same day.
“And thanks to everybody in my box who came out. My boy Nick has a big exam this afternoon but he showed out so I appreciate it. Good luck on that exam bro,” he added.
However, as ESPN covered the American’s remarks, they mistakenly identified his friend Nick as his brother. Ben Shelton took to social media and called out the media outlet for assuming that Nick must be a family member simply because they were both “lightskin,” playfully remarking that he wasn’t aware he had a brother.
“In grand slams it’s almost inevitable at this point… I ain’t know I had a brother 😂,” Shelton posted on his Instagram story.
“Saw a lightskin in the crowd and said he must be family 😭,” he wrote further.
Ben Shelton to take on Roberto Bautista Agut in US Open 2R
Following his win over Dominic Thiem, Ben Shelton will face Roberto Bautista Agut in the second round of the 2024 US Open. The Spaniard edged past Luca Nardi 7-5, 7-6(3), 7-6(5) to book his place against Shelton.
The American will enter the clash with an air of confidence, having claimed a 6-2, 7-6(2), 7-5 win over Bautista Agut in their sole previous encounter at this year’s Australian Open. If the World No. 13 emerges victorious once more, he will face Frances Tiafoe or Alexander Shevchenko in the third round.
Shelton could potentially set up a blockbuster fourth-round clash against defending champion Novak Djokovic, which would give him the opportunity to avenge his semifinal loss to the Serb from last year’s New York Major.
