Ben Shelton has got the internet buzzing with his victory message after his third-round win at the Australian Open. The first Grand Slam of the 2026 season began on Jan. 18 and will conclude on Feb. 1 at Melbourne Park.
Shelton has cemented his status as a strong competitor at the Australian Open with his dominant performances in the first three rounds. His latest matchup was on Friday against Valentin Vacherot at Margaret Court Arena, where he moved one step closer to the trophy by besting the Monégasque player. He earned a 6-4, 6-4, 7-6(5) win, advancing to the fourth round.
Following his triumph, the American penned a victory message while signing the camera that read: ‘USA till it’s backwards.’ This message is making waves on the internet, as it has left the fans full of unanswered questions. They have been engaging in discussions on the meaning of his message on social media platforms, including Reddit and X.
The Tennis Letter posted the picture of Shelton’s message on X and penned a tweet that read:
“Ben Shelton signs the camera after reaching the 2nd week of the Australian Open. “USA ’til it’s backwards””
https://x.com/TheTennisLetter/status/2014946311020429693
One of the fans expressed their confusion about his message and wrote:
“What does that even mean?”
https://x.com/50SevenX/status/2014949346031370400
Another user slammed the American, stating that he wrote the message to look ‘cool.’
“Doesn’t mean shit probably! As long as it sounds “cool” I guess.”
Another tennis enthusiast on Reddit opened up about their thoughts on Ben Shelton’s message, writing:
“What does it mean? Nobody knows what it means. It’s provocative. It gets the people going.”
Calling it a political take, another user chimed in:
“Being patriotic to the USA at a time like this is definitely a choice. Very disappointing by Ben, he lost a fan today.”
Ben Shelton Revealed his Priority During his Off Days at the Australian Open
After beating Valentin Vacherot in the Australian Open’s third round, Ben Shelton addressed the media in an on-court interview. While answering about his experience of playing against the 27-year-old, the American was also questioned about his shenanigans during his off days before his fourth round on Monday.
Responding to this, he revealed that he will not leave his hotel room, prioritizing his physical health for his next showdown (1:47 onwards):
“I don’t really leave my hotel, bro. Especially right now it’s too hot outside. Put the AC down to like 18 and just chill. But, no, I think that physically to recover is the most important piece when you get into the second week of a major. And, for me, getting my body right is most important.
“And I want to know that I can go the distance every time that I step on the court. You know, if this roof was open today, I don’t know if I was going to be able to go the distance. I don’t think anyone was prepared for that. So, y’all stay cool out there for sure.”
Ben Shelton recently apologized to the crowd at the Australian Open in the second round, who were cheering for his opponent Dane Sweeny. The audience was very respectful of the American while cheering for the Australian, to which the world No. 7 shared his massive respect.
Read More Tennis News:
1. Ben Shelton Feels Girlfriend Trinity Rodman’s Impact at Australian Open Despite Painful Distance
2. ASB Classic 2026: Ben Shelton vs Sebastian Baez Odds, Prediction, & Best Bet
3. Ben Shelton’s Girlfriend Trinity Rodman Reacts Instantly As American Roars In Australian Open 1R
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