Is Ben Shelton playing at Laver Cup 2024? All you need to know about the American's presence at the Roger Federer-backed event

Ben Shelton had an underwhelming campaign at the US Open, crashing out in the third round. Fellow countryman Frances Tiafoe defeated him in a grueling five-set encounter 6-4, 5-7, 7-6, 4-6, 3-6.

Shelton was seeded thirteenth at Flushing Meadows while Tiafoe was twenty, adding more salt to his defeat. However, since the Grand Slam, Shelton has taken some time off to refresh and prepare for the next big event of the year in Berlin, The Laver Cup.

Shelton turned pro just a few years ago and has burst onto the scene with his impressive performances. His rivalry with Tiafoe dates back to his ATP Title in Houston when he defeated Tiafoe in straight sets 7-5, 4-6, 6-3 to win his second title.

Ben Shelton is not a stranger to the Laver Cup, where he did not lose a single set in his debut at Vancouver. His efforts helped Team World secure six of the thirteen points needed for victory as he looks to have an even more significant impact this year in Berlin.

Speaking about his motivation to play the iconic tournament, Shelton said (via Laver Cup):

"It was special for me being a part of it for the first time the last year, getting the nod from John McEnroe. It's just an iconic event that you've seen a lot of the top players in the sport be a part of, so to be a part of it and compete, feel that team energy and team atmosphere that I love so much, it’s been really cool for me and I’m excited again to be on the team this year.”

Shelton confirmed his presence at the Laver Cup through his Instagram story captioned:

"Time to go make it happen! See y’all in Berlin.”

Ben Shelton will join Taylor Fritz, Frances Tiafoe Thanasi Kokkinakis, Francisco Cerundolo, and Alejandro Tabilo as they represent Team World. Under captain John McEnroe, they will fight for a third straight Laver Cup title.

---

Ben Shelton is motivated for Team World's hat trick at the Laver Cup

Ben Shelton at the US Open Tennis Championship 2023 | Getty Images

While Team Europe looks more vital than ever during this edition of the Laver Cup, the USA's Ben Shelton is more motivated to defend its title.

Team Europe is filled with some of the most talented players in the current era, including Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev, Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Grigor Dimitrov.

After looking at such a strong lineup, Shelton said (via Laver Cup):

“We want to win bad. We beat them down last year, and they brought all the big guns to Berlin, so we’re excited about the challenge. We’re a pretty confident group and looking forward to it."

Ben Shelton enjoys his Laver Cup teammates' camaraderie. As per the American, the emotions felt during the Laver Cup cannot be replicated during any other tournament.