Naomi Osaka’s former coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, shared his views on Ben Shelton and World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz’s approach and attitude towards the game as the two tennis players are through to the quarterfinals of the Australian Open.
The Spaniard defeated Tommy Paul in straight sets in the round of 16 on Sunday and is all set to play his quarterfinal clash against the home favorite Alex de Minaur at Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday night’s session.
Shelton, on the other hand, fought past Casper Ruud in the round of 16 match on Monday to set up a fiery quarterfinals clash against the defending champion Jannik Sinner on Wednesday. Against Ruud, the American No. 1 had to dig in deep after losing the opening set 6-3.
Shelton regrouped and played exceptional tennis over the following three sets to close out the match in dominant fashion, a testament to his mental tenacity on court. Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka’s former coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, believes there is more to Shelton than meets the eye and compared his mental strength and inner resilience to bounce back in difficult situations to Alcaraz’s.
“I think what Shelton did in that match is amazing. He was really dominated. He lost 6-3 in the first set, and the reaction was incredible. It can be compared with Alcaraz sometimes. When he has the downs, he’s dominated, he’s missing, and suddenly something clicks,” Mouratoglou said.
“Ben is able to go to that position in terms of level of play. When he does this, in a lot of matches, there is no other option for the opponent. Not many players can handle it. And the same with Carlos,” he added.
Ben Shelton Has Fired Warning Shots Towards Sinner Ahead of Their Quarterfinal Clash
After beating Ruud, Shelton immediately shifted his focus to the quarterfinal match against the defending champion. The American roused the fans at Rod Laver Arena by stating, “I’ll be ready to go,” when asked about avenging his last year’s semifinal loss to Sinner at Melbourne Park.
Shelton shared reasons for his confidence heading into the quarterfinals match, stating he has heavily improved his weaknesses for the 2026 campaign.
“Mentally, for sure, I’m a lot more focused, a lot more locked in to the type of player I am and what my game style is, what I do well and where my weaknesses are. I’m honest with myself, but I’m confident in my abilities. My confidence grows each and every year due to the work we keep putting in, and that’s not going to stop,” Shelton said.
The World No. 7 is eager to get back on court and prove his might against Sinner. The duo is scheduled to lock horns at Rod Laver Arena on Wednesday.
Also read:
Ben Shelton Reveals Reasons Why He Can Upset Jannik Sinner in Australian Open Quarterfinal
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