Shelton confident as US Open kicks off with American hopes high

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FILE PHOTO: Tennis - U.S. Open - Flushing Meadows, New York, United States - August 19, 2025 Ben Shelton of the U.S. reacts during the round of 16 mixed doubles match with Taylor Townsend of the U.S. against Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. and Denmarks Holger Rune REUTERS/Kylie Cooper/ File Photo

Ben Shelton arrived at the U.S. Open brimming with confidence and determined to be part of the American surge many believe could finally break through at Flushing Meadows.

This is the biggest tournament of the year for me, the 22-year-old told reporters on Friday.

I put a lot of work into being in a good place when I got here. Feeling confident about my game. Feel really good and prepared going into this tournament, so... Just excited to get out there, see what happens.

Shelton returns to New York riding the momentum of his maiden Masters 1000 title in Canada and a career-high world number six ranking, two years removed from his breakout run to the U.S. Open semi-finals.

American hopes are once again a central storyline ahead of the final Grand Slam of the year, with Patrick McEnroe predicting this week that a home player will finally lift the mens trophy after a drought of more than 20 years.

Shelton did not shy away from the conversation, but spread the credit widely.

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