Rising American tennis star Ben Shelton comes from a family deeply ingrained in the sport, with both his father, Bryan Shelton, and mother, Lisa Witsken Shelton, having notable tennis backgrounds. Their influence has been instrumental in shaping Ben’s career, providing him with a strong foundation and expert guidance from an early age.
Bryan Shelton: Father, Former Pro, and Coach
Ben Shelton’s father, Bryan Shelton, is a highly respected figure in the tennis world, having excelled as both a professional player and a collegiate coach. Bryan Shelton reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of No. 55 and achieved significant milestones during his playing career, including reaching the Round of 16 at Wimbledon in 1994 and a mixed doubles final at the French Open in 1993.
After retiring from his professional playing career in 1997, Bryan transitioned to coaching. He notably served as the head coach for the University of Florida Gators men’s tennis team, leading them to an NCAA Championship in 2021. He also coached the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets women’s team to an NCAA title in 2007, making him the only coach in NCAA Division I tennis history to win national championships with both men’s and women’s teams.
In 2023, Bryan Shelton stepped down from his collegiate coaching position to become Ben’s full-time coach, further solidifying their close bond on and off the court. Ben has openly expressed his gratitude for his father’s guidance, stating that Bryan is his biggest inspiration and provides “world-class, high-level coach” advice.
Lisa Witsken Shelton: Accomplished Junior Player and Supportive Mother
Ben Shelton’s mother, Lisa Witsken Shelton, also boasts a strong tennis lineage. She was an accomplished junior tennis player and competed at the collegiate level. Lisa comes from a family deeply connected to tennis; her brother, Todd Witsken, was a professional tennis player who reached No. 43 in singles and No. 4 in doubles on the ATP Tour.
While Lisa transitioned from a tennis career to real estate after marriage, her influence on Ben’s discipline and values remains profound. She has been a constant source of support for her son, often seen cheering him on from the stands at major tournaments. Ben has publicly acknowledged his mother’s unwavering support, noting her dedication to watching his matches regardless of the time.
Bryan and Lisa Shelton married in October 1999 and have two children: Emma, born in 2001, and Ben, born in 2002. Ben’s older sister, Emma, also played collegiate tennis at the University of Florida, further highlighting the family’s deep connection to the sport.
The combined experience and unwavering support of Bryan and Lisa Shelton have undoubtedly played a pivotal role in Ben Shelton’s rapid ascent in professional tennis. His success is a testament to his own talent and dedication, nurtured within a family environment that understands and champions the demands of elite-level tennis.
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