With an energy and format unique among ATP events, the Laver Cup seems a fitting stage on which Ben Shelton will make his competition debut for Team World in Vancouver.
Named in the opening singles match against Team Europe’s Arthur Fils, Shelton is expected to bring his trademark energy to Rogers Arena, something which could set the tone for his team’s campaign.
Shelton and Team World are looking to make it two titles in a row over Team Europe after their maiden win last year in London.
Speaking on this week’s episode of The AO Show podcast, former British No.1 Sam Smith believed Shelton – who has previously thrived in the team atmosphere of college tennis – was a natural fit for this moment.
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“He’s made for it, isn’t he?” Smith said of Shelton, who recently cracked the top 20 after reaching the US Open semifinals.
“He’s got so much fizz and fireworks to his game, and I think he will excite crowds all around the world.”
Shelton, along with teammates Taylor Fritz, Frances Tiafoe, Tommy Paul, Felix Auger-Aliassime and Francisco Cerundolo, will be guided by Team World captain John McEnroe.
Australian doubles legend Todd Woodbridge, chatting with Smith and Mark Petchey on the same episode, recounted a conversation overheard in the lead-up to this weekend’s action.
“Ben was with John courtside, and he said, 'I didn’t want to bring a coach with me, or my dad, or anybody; I want to come here because I just want to be near you and learn and listen',” Woodbridge said.
“Which I think is unbelievably good; so refreshing to hear that. He looks up to the guy, he knows all about him, and he’s got this opportunity to take this information and make himself a better player.”
Team Europe, led by top-10 stars Andrey Rublev and Casper Ruud, will hope to weather the storm and bring the energy of their own. This will be helped by the inclusion of Gael Monfils, the popular French veteran also debuting at the Laver Cup in 2023.
“His form hasn’t been anything to shout out to the rafters about,” Woodbridge said of the current world No.124 making his way back from injury, “but what he does bring is a magical entertainment factor and as a player he is likely to play some of his best tennis in this environment.”
The 2023 Laver Cup takes place from Friday 22 September to Sunday 24 September.