“People Don’t Want to Practice as Much” – Ben Shelton Opens Up About Being a Left-Handed Player on the ATP Tour
Ben Shelton, one of the rising stars of the ATP Tour, has had a remarkable journey to the top of men’s tennis. Known for his explosive game and natural talent, the 21-year-old American is quickly becoming a fan favorite, capturing attention with his impressive performances on the court. However, in a recent candid interview, Shelton opened up about the unique challenges he faces as a left-handed player navigating the competitive world of professional tennis, offering insight into the intricacies of his game and the way others perceive his playing style.
While being a left-handed player is often seen as an advantage on the tennis court due to the natural surprise element it can bring, Shelton made an interesting observation about how it affects his ability to practice with others on the ATP Tour. “People don’t want to practice as much,” he explained with a thoughtful tone. “Left-handed players are a little more difficult for others to practice with because we’re not as common. Most guys are used to practicing against right-handed players, and facing a lefty is a different experience.”
Shelton’s comment sheds light on a unique aspect of being a left-handed player in a sport dominated by right-handers. While left-handed players may be relatively rare in tennis, they often develop a different set of skills, tactics, and strategies that are unfamiliar to many of their right-handed counterparts. For example, lefties naturally hit the ball with a different spin and angle, creating a distinct challenge for right-handed players who may not be as accustomed to the peculiarities of a left-handed opponent. This can make practicing with a left-handed player a bit more challenging, especially for players who are focused on preparing for right-handed competitors.
For Ben Shelton, this reality has presented both challenges and opportunities. Growing up in a tennis environment, Shelton was accustomed to playing with and against left-handed players, as his father, Bryan Shelton, was also a left-handed tennis player. “My dad was left-handed, so I’ve always had that as part of my training,” Shelton shared. “It wasn’t until I got to the tour that I realized just how rare it was to find a left-handed player who is in the same position, competing at the highest level.”
Despite these challenges, Shelton has learned to turn his left-handedness into a unique asset. As a lefty, he has developed a game that is distinct from the typical right-handed player. His serve, in particular, is one of his standout weapons. The angle and spin that he can generate from his left-handed serve create difficulties for his opponents, especially when serving to their backhand. Shelton’s left-handed forehand, too, has become a major strength in his game, allowing him to dictate rallies and catch opponents off-guard with sharp angles.
However, as Shelton has observed, many right-handed players are not as eager to practice with lefties, which can pose a challenge for his preparation. “When I go into practice, I know that it’s hard for people to get used to my left-handed game,” he said. “It’s tough for them to adjust, especially when you have to deal with different spins, angles, and tactics. So, it can make it harder to find practice partners who can mimic what I’ll face in a match.”
Despite the lack of willingness from some players to practice with him, Shelton has found ways to work around these challenges. With the help of his coaching team and a select group of practice partners who are willing to embrace the nuances of training with a left-handed player, Shelton has been able to continue refining his game. He also takes advantage of the rare opportunities to face other left-handed players on tour, which helps him prepare for the unpredictability that lefties bring to the table.
“Left-handed players do bring something different to the game,” Shelton acknowledged. “It’s not just about the serve, but also how you move around the court, the way you rally, and how you approach strategy. It can throw off right-handed players because they don’t see it as often, and I think that’s why it can be difficult for them to practice against us.”
While Shelton’s observations may seem to highlight a disadvantage, there are certainly advantages to being a left-handed player in a sport that is predominantly right-handed. The rarity of left-handed players means that right-handed opponents are often unprepared for the lefty’s style, which can give the lefty a competitive edge. Shelton himself has used this to his advantage, noting that many right-handed players have difficulty adjusting to the left-handed game, especially in crucial moments during matches. The element of surprise can often lead to unforced errors or missed opportunities for his opponents, allowing Shelton to capitalize on their discomfort.
Moreover, left-handed players tend to be more creative and adaptable on the court. Due to the unique challenges they face in their training and matches, left-handed players are often forced to develop a wider range of shots and strategies to counteract the disadvantages they may face. This has undoubtedly shaped Shelton’s game, as he has become known for his versatility and the variety of shots he can execute under pressure.
The growing success of Ben Shelton on the ATP Tour is also indicative of the increasing recognition of left-handed players in professional tennis. Historically, left-handed players have had notable success, with legends like John McEnroe, Rafael Nadal, and Martina Navratilova proving that being a lefty is far from a disadvantage in the sport. Nadal, in particular, has dominated the ATP Tour for over a decade, and his left-handed play has been a key part of his success, particularly on clay courts.
For Shelton, being a left-handed player is part of what makes him unique in the highly competitive world of men’s tennis. While he acknowledges the challenges it brings, he also recognizes the ways in which it sets him apart from his peers. His experiences as a lefty have not only shaped his tennis style but also contributed to his growth as a player and as a person.
Looking ahead, Shelton is determined to make the most of the opportunities that come with his left-handed game. He understands that being different can be a source of strength, and he is excited about the future of his career. “I’m really excited about what’s ahead,” Shelton said. “I think being a lefty is a huge advantage, even if not everyone sees it that way. I’ll keep working hard and continuing to develop my game, and I’m confident that it will take me far.”
As Ben Shelton continues to rise through the ranks of professional tennis, his unique perspective as a left-handed player will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping his success. While practicing with right-handed players may present challenges, his adaptability, creativity, and natural gifts ensure that he will remain a force to be reckoned with on the ATP Tour. Whether it’s leveraging the advantages of his left-handed play or finding innovative ways to overcome obstacles, Shelton’s determination to succeed is a testament to his belief in his abilities and his commitment to making his mark on the sport.
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