Melbourne, Australia
News Desk | Sports
MELBOURNE, Australia — American tennis star Ben Shelton, currently ranked among the world’s top players, advanced to the fourth round of the 2026 Australian Open on Monday after a straight-sets victory, setting up a high-profile clash with Norwegian Casper Ruud later in the day at Melbourne Park. Shelton’s progression continues a strong campaign at the year’s first Grand Slam, where his powerful serve and aggressive baseline play have driven him through the early rounds of the tournament.
The 23-year-old left-hander, known on tour for his serve speed and competitive intensity, defeated France’s Ugo Humbert in the opening round and followed that with another solid performance to reach the last 16. Officials at the tournament confirmed Shelton’s form has positioned him as one of the leading American contenders in this year’s draw.
Ben Shelton, seeded eighth in Melbourne, has shown consistency on hard courts this fortnight, bringing his serve and forehand winners to bear against top opponents. He is scheduled to face Ruud, a seasoned top-10 player, in what tournament insiders describe as a potentially defining match for both men, with a quarterfinal berth on the line.
Off the court, Shelton garnered attention for a brief moment captured on camera after his third-round win, signing a broadcast camera with the phrase USA ’til it’s backwards, a gesture that drew mixed reactions from fans and commentators. The player did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the message.
Ben Shelton run at the Australian Open follows a breakthrough 2025 season in which he reached his career-high ranking inside the top 5 and captured his first ATP Masters 1000 title at the Canadian Open — achievements that established him as the top American singles player on the ATP Tour.
The outcome of Shelton’s match against Ruud will determine whether he advances to his second Grand Slam quarterfinal in three years. The story is developing.
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