Ben Shelton proudly joins Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, John McEnroe & 4 other American greats with run to Australian Open SF

Ben Shelton has added his name to the elite group of tennis legends like Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, and others. The ATP star made it to the semifinals of the Australian Open 2025 and therefore added a massive feat to his portfolio at just the age of 22.

Shelton secured a staggering win over Italy's Lorenzo Sonego with a final scoreline of 6-4, 7-5, 4-6, 7-6 (4). The hard-fought victory helped him secure a spot in the final four of the ongoing event. His campaign has also included commendable wins over Gael Monfils and Lorenzo Musetti.

Shelton became the eighth American male to reach multiple Grand Slam semifinals at the age of 22 or younger. This added his name to a list featuring American tennis legends including the 8-time Grand Slam champion Andre Agassi, the 7-time champion John McEnroe, and others.

Back in 2023, Ben Shelton made it to the US Open semifinals after winning an all-American showdown against Frances Tiafoe. Although his campaign was halted with a defeat against Novak Djokovic.

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Ben Shelton hopes for crowd support for the upcoming challenge against Jannik Sinner

2025 Australian Open - Source: Getty

Ben Shelton took a moment to thank the Australian crowd for its commendable support throughout his ongoing campaign. After securing a win over Lorenzo Sonego, the American acknowledged the fact that the crowd support would be heavier against him in the upcoming match against Jannik Sinner. However, he appreciated the support from those who cheered for him.

"If it’s the home favorite Alex de Minaur [in the semi-finals], you guys can boo me, throw stuff at my head.. I understand. If it’s the No. 1 in the world [Jannik Sinner], it’ll probably be the same, so I’m looking forward to it. I know I got a few in the crowd who are going to be pulling for me too," he said.

His comments came in regard to the support that the home athlete Alex de Minaur experienced during his quarterfinal matchup against Sinner.

Shelton now looks forward to his sixth meeting against the world No. 1. While the head-to-head score points at a concerning 4-1, the defending champion is highly likely to be favored by the Australian crowd in the upcoming showdown.