Ben Shelton Predicts “Physical War” with Rival Jannik Sinner
Indian Wells
March 11, 2024
Ben “Showtime” Shelton produced more drama in the desert to delight the late-night crowd at Indian Wells.
He signed off a three-set thriller by writing the words ‘desert dreams’ on the court camera.
But his best chance of reaching the quarter-finals is to whip up a nightmare storm against the fearsome Jannik Sinner.
Ben Shelton and Jannik Sinner will provide a marvellous spectacle if they get to play together on Centre Court at Wimbledon 2024.
And right now, no one can wait for their showdown in the round of sixteen at Indian Wells. Even Shelton is relishing the challenge.
After beating the excellent Francisco Cerundolo 7-6 (7-5), 3-6, 7-6 (7-5) to earn his shot at the hottest star in the game right now, Shelton already knew what’s coming.
He said of Sinner: ‘I think it’s one of those matches where you know it’s gonna be a physical war. You know how physical he is, the way he plays.
‘You know how aggressive he is. It’s just one of those matches that you know you’re gonna have to play…’
And Shelton will have to be far more ruthless after squandering more set points than you could count on one hand at the end of the opener.
He’ll have to reduce his unforced-error count too. Cerundolo almost took advantage – and the underdog’s thumping forehand was a joy to behold.
But Ben has a booming serve and wins three-quarters of his tie-breaks. That psychological strength and rock-solid foundation are huge assets.
And don’t forget, Shelton knows how to beat Sinner. He defeated the growing giant of our sport in Shanghai last autumn.
Sinner took his revenge in Vienna. In fact, since losing to the American in Shanghai, the Italian has won 27 matches and lost just one.
Jannik Sinner is surely a contender for the Wimbledon 2024 title – and Shelton looks likely to go deep too.
We can look forward to a wonderful rivalry developing between these two young superstars. And don’t forget the reigning Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz, who is also progressing well at Indian Wells.
Come to Wimbledon 2024 – and enjoy the new kids on the block challenging the all-time-greats on grass.
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We’ll all be watching “Showtime” Shelton against “Iceman” Sinner at Indian Wells. How about you?