By admin 
Ben Shelton is looking to become the first U.S. men’s tennis player to win a Grand Slam since 2003 on Sunday.
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The No. 8 seed in the 2026 U.S. Open is playing Alexander Zverev in the men’s singles final on Sunday. Shelton is coming off a quarterfinals win over Carlos Alcaraz and a semifinals win over fellow American Frances Tiafoe.
Shelton is a rising star, both on and off of the court. On the court, he’s America’s best shot at a men’s tennis star in years. Off of the court, he’s growing in popularity, thanks to some major endorsements and his relationship with U.S. women’s tennis star Trinity Rodman, who has been in attendance at most of his big matches.
The former University of Florida men’s tennis star has been trending for some of his social media posts, too.
During the 2024 presidential election, Shelton caused some controversy on social media, when he made it clear who he thinks is really King.
Shelton shared a photo that said “No matter who is president Jesus is king.” Some members in the tennis community did not take kindly to it.
“Yikes tell me you voted for Trump without telling me you voted for Trump,” one fan commented.
“We already knew he was for Trump,” another fan wrote.
Growing up, Shelton’s dad, who also serves as his coach, made it clear that the family didn’t like the spotlight too much.
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“As a kid, Ben just liked doing things his own way,” his dad and coach, Bryan Shelton said. “Our family is very conservative, and everything he wore had to be neon. He wanted his hair to be long . He just wanted to do things differently . But somewhere along the way, a little switch went off.”
Shelton avoided political answer after the semifinals too
Shelton was asked on Friday night about being a Black player in the U.S. Open final.
“2003 since the last time an American man won the title. It’s been since 1972 that a black man played in the final here. It was Arthur Ashe. On Sunday you will set foot on Arthur Ashe stadium looking to take your first Grand Slam title. When you hear that what goes through your mind?” ESPN sideline reporter Chris Eubanks said.
Shelton, though, didn’t talk about race.
“It’s a lot of emotion. My mom and dad sacrificed a lot for me to be in this position today. My dad lost his mom earlier this year. She’s the reason he was able to play tennis. Without her there’s no Ben Shelton standing here today. This one is for her,” he said.
“I’ma need you guys on Sunday to bring the energy. We’re going for it here. Ima leave it all on the court. I hope you guys come and back me.
“Let’s do this for the USA. One more thing, it’s a difficult day to be out here playing. My thoughts and prayers go out to all families who are impacted by 9/11.
“This is one of the greatest cities in the world and one of the biggest tragedies. Thoughts and prayers to everyone involved and affected.”
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The U.S. Open final is airing on ABC.
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This story was originally published September 13, 2026 at 11:27 AM.