At the glamorous Laver Cup Gala Opening, the world’s media witnessed a unique spectacle as Team World’s Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe shared a lighthearted moment on the black carpet. Their infectious laughter and camaraderie hinted at the close bond they had forged.
Shelton’s college experience at the University of Florida has played a pivotal role in his success at the Laver Cup. The intense atmosphere and pressure-filled doubles matches he encountered there have prepared him for the challenges of professional tennis.
“Doubles play is huge in college tennis,” Shelton explained. “I got used to caring a lot about it and focusing on it in intense atmospheres.”
This experience proved invaluable on Day 1 of the Laver Cup, as Shelton teamed up with Taylor Fritz to secure a crucial doubles victory over Team Europe’s Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev. Their on-court chemistry was evident, despite Shelton’s playful jab at Fritz’s age.
“Taylor is a Laver Cup veteran, so I’m not worried about him being prepared,” Shelton said. “But I’m not calling you old…”
Fritz responded with a smile, “Vet, I don’t know. I’m not that old!”
Shelton’s doubles prowess continued on Saturday night, as he partnered with Alejandro Tabilo to defeat Team Europe’s Casper Ruud and Stefanos Tsitsipas. The victory further solidified Team World’s position in the competition.
Throughout the Laver Cup, Shelton’s teammates have been a constant source of support. Tiafoe was the first to congratulate him after his doubles wins, demonstrating the strong bond within the team.
Shelton’s journey at the Laver Cup is a testament to the importance of camaraderie and the value of college tennis experience in preparing young players for the rigors of professional competition.
