“He exudes freshness and charisma,” Justine Henin claims Novak Djokovic will have to be wary of ‘carefree’ Ben Shelton in the US Open semifinals

Henin's Insights: Shelton's Youthful Exuberance and Djokovic's Challenge

“He exudes freshness and charisma,” Justine Henin claims Novak Djokovic will have to be wary of ‘carefree’ Ben Shelton in the US Open semifinals

DJokovic, Henin and Shelton (Credits: The Independent, Tennis World USA and US Open)

Ben Shelton, a new American tennis sensation, is making waves on the grand stage as the US Open approaches its peak. The 20-year-old is set to meet Novak Djokovic in his first major semifinal, creating an exciting excitement at Flushing Meadows.

Shelton’s incredible run to the semifinals includes an incredible four-set victory over Frances Tiafoe, his five-year senior compatriot. The performance of the young has sparked the aspirations of a nation anxious to see their first male Grand Slam champion since 2003.

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Former world number one and tennis legend Justine Henin has spoken to Eurosport on this thrilling encounter. She shared insight into what could tilt the scales in Shelton’s favor. Henin believes that Shelton’s easygoing attitude, along with his strong serve, will be crucial to his success against Djokovic.

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Shelton’s tremendous potential was stressed by Henin, who cited his prior quarterfinal participation at this year’s Australian Open and his excellent run at the US Open. She stated, “He’s phenomenal,” adding, “He exudes freshness and charisma. We love his spectacular tennis.“

Also Read: US Open 2023: Carlos Alcaraz vs. Daniil Medvedev Preview, Prediction and Live Stream

“Henin’s perspective on rising stars and the quest for an upset”

Shelton and Alcaraz
Shelton and Alcaraz (Credits: Vogue and The Hollywood Reporter)

Henin emphasized the importance of youthful energy and delight in the sport by comparing Shelton to another rising star, Carlos Alcaraz. “We’re not going to compare them, but to be able to offer that to the American public is exceptional,” Henin added, referring to Shelton’s meteoric rise in the tennis world.

When Shelton takes the court next, he will be up against one of the all-time greats, Novak Djokovic. The Serb has an incredible 23 Grand Slam title wins and is expected to reclaim the world No. 1 status after the event. Despite the enormous task, Henin did not rule out Shelton pulling off an upset victory.

“We want there to be a match. We want Shelton, with his tennis, to be able to upset him,” Henin said, emphasizing the excitement surrounding this battle of styles. “Will he be able to stay carefree? He seems well on the way to doing so,” Henin observed.

Finally, Henin praised Djokovic’s expertise and prowess while emphasizing that the young American had the energy and dynamism that might make this semifinal match one for the ages. “Djokovic will also have the pride to show the youngsters that he’s the one with the legs and the genius to win,” Henin added, setting up an exciting and intriguing US Open semifinal duel.

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