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Ben Shelton Age: 23 (October 9, 2002) Birth place: Atlanta, Georgia Career high: World No. 5 Singles titles: 3 Miami Open Best: 3rd Round in 2024 Prize Money: US$ 11,197,426 www.instagram.com/benshelton Ben Shelton turned professional in 2022 after winning the NCAA singles title at the University of Florida, a decision that quickly proved justified. The left-hander grew up immersed in tennis. His father, Bryan Shelton, is a former professional player and respected college coach who shaped his early development and competitive mindset. Raised in Florida, Shelton built his identity around a powerful serve, explosive movement, and a fearless approach that translated smoothly to the ATP Tour. That Florida background directly influences how he feels about competing in Miami. When asked what comes to mind when he thinks about the city, he answers plainly, “When I think of Miami, obviously I’m from Florida, so I think of home, I think of sunshine. Miami is kind of the epitome of Florida.” It is a reflection of comfort and familiarity rather than spectacle. The setting is not foreign to him. It feels personal. The conditions at the Miami Open are demanding, with heat, humidity, and quick courts. Shelton approaches it with practical adjustments. “I think string tension, how much you’re drinking, hydrating, you know, the type of drink supplements that you might be taking is all something that’s adjusted from week to week. You know, putting on sunscreens. There’s a lot of things that are important that you kind of know if you’ve lived in Florida for a long time.” It is a detailed answer that reflects lived experience rather than theory. His rise on tour came quickly. In 2023, he reached the quarterfinals of the Australian Open in just his second Grand Slam main draw appearance. Later that year, he advanced to the semifinals of the US Open, becoming the youngest American man to reach that stage in New York since Andy Roddick. He secured his first ATP title at the Japan Open in 2023 and added a second in 2024 at the U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship, confirming his ability to contend across surfaces.