Ben Shelton Becomes Highest Ranked American Male Tennis Player for First Time in Career

Madison Williams | Apr 15, 2024

Mar 25, 2024; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Ben Shelton (USA) reacts to a point against Lorenzo Musetti (ITA) (not pictured). / Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

At 21 years old, Ben Shelton is already adding another accomplishment to his resume by becoming the highest-ranked American male tennis player at No. 14 in this week's ATP rankings.

This is also the highest ranking of Shelton's young career. He began the 2023 season at No. 96 in the world, but his achievements over the past year helped propel him to the top 15 in the world.

Shelton surpassed Taylor Fritz for the top American ranking, who now sits at No. 15. Fritz held the title for over a year.

Another accomplishment for the World No. 14 👏 pic.twitter.com/rohTGuqY8d

— USTA (@usta) April 15, 2024

The Atlanta native most recently played at the ATP Houston tournament, winning the title over fellow American, Frances Tiafoe. This was just the second title won in Shelton's career.

Last year was the breakout season for Shelton, especially after he faced World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the U.S. Open semifinals. He beat Tiafoe and another American Tommy Paul on his run to the semifinals. Before that, he lost to Paul in the Australian Open quarterfinals in Jan. 2023.