Ben Shelton dumps Novak Djokovic for Rafael Nadal as his idol following the US Open phone call celebration rift

Ben Shelton does the 'phone call' celebration with John McEnroe in the Laver Cup 2023.

Ben Shelton dumps Novak Djokovic for Rafael Nadal as his idol following the US Open phone call celebration rift

Ben Shelton, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. (Via Tennis Iconic and ATP Tour)

The highly anticipated Laver Cup 2023 kicked off with a bang as Team World took charge on day one. With a score of 4-0, the Red team is ahead of their opponents. Team World is being led by the legendary John McEnroe and his guidance has given his team an edge. Ben Shelton, one of the star players, expressed his admiration for the legend during the interview.

In an interview with the Laver Cup press, Ben Shelton revealed his thoughts about the iconic Spaniard Rafael Nadal. The American recalls learning from watching Rafa play and acknowledges the Spaniard’s fighting spirit.“I think at times on the court, the way that I love to fight, and that I don’t give up, could be some traits that I saw or learned from Rafa growing up. He was one of those guys who replicated it every match, every tournament. You could only hope to have a fighting spirit like him,” said Ben. 

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Ben Shelton was a huge fan of Novak Djokovic before his dispute over the phone call celebration. Now, the youngster has revealed that he wants to be more like Nadal and wants to acquire that never-give-up attitude from the 22-time Grand Slam champion.

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Ben Shelton enlightened the Arena with his iconic phone call celebration

Youngster Ben Shelton has yet again gotten the audience cheering for him with his most iconic phone call celebrations. However this time, he got his coach John McEnroe to do the celebration with him. The whole Team World was on their feet cheering on the youngster after a confident win against his first-round opponent.

Ben Shelton does a phone call celebration in Laver Cup 2023.
Ben Shelton does a phone call celebration in Laver Cup 2023. (Via Eurosport)

Team World is currently in the lead with 4 points from day 1 and has started their defense well. Day 2 starts today and the ones in Red will look to continue their momentum and overthrow the Team Europe in blue.

Ben Shelton has shown the world his capabilities by reaching the semis of the US Open. He currently takes a rest on day 2 and will be seen cheering on his mates in the future rounds. Frances Tiafoe will be the highlight of day 2 as he faces Hubert Hurkacz in an all-exciting game. These two have played before and Hurkacz is leading the H2H with 3:2.

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