A promising tournament run ended in heartbreak as shoulder injury sidelines Ben Shelton at the 2025 US Open. The sixth-seeded American was forced to retire during his third-round match against Adrian Mannarino due to a severe left shoulder injury. This unexpected withdrawal marks a significant setback for the young star, who was enjoying a career-best season.
Shelton’s US Open Cut Short
The 22-year-old Shelton, ranked No. 6 in the PIF ATP Rankings, retired from the match at Louis Armstrong Stadium on Friday, August 29th. According to the ATP Tour, this was Shelton’s first retirement in 178 professional matches, highlighting the severity of the injury. The abrupt end to his US Open campaign left Shelton visibly emotional as he left the court.
The Injury Details
Shelton visibly struggled with his left shoulder throughout the match, particularly in the fourth set. He was often seen slicing his forehand and wincing when attempting topspin shots. While the specific moment of the injury is unclear, reports suggest he may have injured himself while stretching for a ball to win the third set. He described the pain as “really high” and stated, “I’ve never felt anything like this before,” as reported by geosuper.tv, which ultimately led to his decision to retire before the decisive fifth set.
Coaching Staff and Support
His father and coach, Bryan Shelton, along with physiotherapists, were present to provide support, but the pain could not be alleviated. This highlights the seriousness of the injury, which ultimately forced Shelton to make the difficult decision to retire.
Impact and Immediate Reactions
The withdrawal marks a significant blow to Shelton, who was enjoying the best tennis of his career. He had recently captured his first ATP Masters 1000 title in Toronto and achieved a career-high ranking. Many considered him one of the top American hopes for a deep run in the tournament.
Mannarino Advances
As a result of Shelton’s retirement, Adrian Mannarino advanced to the fourth round of the US Open for the first time in his career. This unexpected turn of events altered the trajectory of the tournament for both players.
Expert Opinions
Tennis analysts have weighed in on Shelton’s decision to retire. Former Australian Open semifinalist Chanda Rubin called it a “smart decision” to prevent further damage, according to the Tennis Channel. This sentiment underscores the importance of prioritizing long-term health over immediate competitive goals.
Uncertain Future and Potential Absences
The severity and long-term implications of Shelton’s shoulder injury remain uncertain. This raises concerns about his participation in upcoming tournaments, including events that he played in last year.
Tournament Participation in Doubt
Shelton’s participation in the Laver Cup, Japan Open, and Shanghai Masters, all of which he played in last year, is now in question. The uncertainty surrounding his recovery timeline casts a shadow over his upcoming schedule. According to AP News, Shelton will undergo further evaluation to determine the extent of the injury and the necessary course of treatment.
The Road to Recovery
The focus now shifts to Shelton’s recovery and rehabilitation. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the extent of the injury and the appropriate treatment plan. A successful recovery will be essential for Shelton to return to the court and continue his promising career trajectory. CBSSports.com reports that Shelton will be consulting with specialists to develop a comprehensive recovery strategy.
Conclusion
Ben Shelton’s premature exit from the US Open due to a shoulder injury is a tough blow for the rising star and his fans. The focus now shifts to his recovery, with the hope that he can return to the court soon and continue his ascent in the world of professional tennis. The tennis world awaits updates on his condition and eagerly anticipates his return to competition.
