Ben Shelton of United States in action against Ugo Humbert of France in the first round of the mens singles at the Australian Open at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park. — Jan 20, 2026; Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Ben Shelton of United States in action against Ugo Humbert of France in the first round of the mens singles at the Australian Open at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images

Ben Shelton of United States in action against Ugo Humbert of France in the first round of the mens singles at the Australian Open at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park. — Jan 20, 2026; Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Ben Shelton of United States in action against Ugo Humbert of France in the first round of the mens singles at the Australian Open at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images

Ben Shelton Feels Girlfriend Trinity Rodman’s Impact at Australian Open Despite Painful Distance

January 22, 2026 | 12:17 AM EST

Ben Shelton is through to the third round of the 2026 Australian Open. He recorded a dominant 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 win over Dane Sweeny at the John Cain Arena on Thursday, January 22. The American breezed past his opponent in just one hour and 42 minutes.

Building on his strong performance, the lefty blasted 19 aces, maintained a first-serve win percentage of 88%, hit 38 winners, broke the Australian five times, and won a total of 89 points.

Following his victory, Shelton met Christopher Eubanks for the on-court interview, where he discussed his approach against Sweeny and reflected on his tactics during such a dominant showing.

Eubanks said he was impressed by Shelton’s footwork and asked whether it had something to do with playing soccer during the offseason with his girlfriend and Washington Spirit star Trinity Rodman.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. No, definitely a work in progress for sure. I don’t know if the soccer has anything to do with it. But I’ll claim it for sure. I got on the soccer field a few times in the offseason. But I wouldn’t consider myself a serious cross trainer,” Shelton said.

Rodman was with Shelton in Auckland, where he played in the ATP 250 ASB Classic. The duo shared plenty of romantic moments and went on dates. Unfortunately, the Spirit superstar couldn’t travel to Melbourne due to her soccer commitments back home and left a day before the main draw of the Australian Open commenced in full swing.

Ben Shelton Praises Dane Sweeny After Their R2 Match at Australian Open

Ben Shelton began his on-court interview by reflecting on the game. He also praised his opponent and homeboy Sweeny, calling him a future star of the sport.

“Yeah, I think Dane is a great competitor. A really tough guy to play. I think he’s electric. I think that it’s clear why the Aussie crowds love him here, and he’s a fan favorite. And I’m sure he’s going to be lighting up John Cain for many years to come. This is a court that I’m experienced playing on,” Shelton said.

“I’m experienced playing Aussies here. I’m sorry about the outcome today. But I love the chants. I love the noise. I love the passion that you guys have for the sport. So thanks everybody for coming out today, even if you wanted me to go down,” he added.

The 23-year-old American will next be up against Pole Valentin Vacherot in the third round on Saturday.

Also read:

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Andre Agassi Goes Shirtless With Grigor Dimitrov In Unseen Picture After Australian Open Reunion

Victoria Mboko Breaks Into Coco Gauff-Carlos Alcaraz Territory With Glamorous Rolex Deal

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Article written by Karan Tyagi

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