BEN Shelton just surpassed his dad’s best run at Wimbledon by reaching the quarter-finals.
The world No. 10 came from a set down to defeat Lorenzo Sonego in a thrilling match-up — here we get to know Ben’s parents, who were cheering him on from the stands.
Ben Shelton pictured with his coach and father Bryan Shelton after winning the 2024 US Mens Clay Court Championships[/caption]
Bryan and Lisa Shelton celebrating their son’s fourth round victory over Lorenzo Sonego at Wimbledon 2025[/caption]
Bryan Shelton was also a tennis pro[/caption]
Rising American tennis star Ben Shelton comes from a family deeply rooted in the game.
His parents both had tennis careers of their own, as well as playing a crucial role in shaping their son’s journey as a professional athlete.
Members of Ben’s family have been supporting him at Wimbledon 2025.
After defeating Marton Fucsovics, the rising US star said: “I’ve been playing well this week. It’s not just been me here, I have a great team.
“My parents are here, my girlfriend’s here. Also, my sister’s here. She’s been here for every match I’ve played at this tournament so far.
Ben’s dad Bryan Shelton
Bryan Shelton is a former professional tennis player who competed on the ATP Tour during the 1990s.
He reached a career-high singles ranking of No. 55 in the world.
In 1992, Bryan went on a deep run at the French Open, making it all the way to the final of the mixed doubles alongside Lori McNeil.
Another of his highlights was making the fourth round of Wimbledon in 1994 — a feat his son just surpassed by reaching the quarter-finals — showcasing his talent the biggest of stages.
After retiring from playing, Bryan transitioned into coaching.
He served as the head coach of the Georgia Tech women’s tennis team from 1999, before taking the helm of the University of Florida men’s tennis program in 2012.
Under his leadership, the Gators won the 2021 NCAA Championships — the first national title in the school’s history — cementing his reputation as one of the top college tennis coaches in the US.
Bryan has also worked with the United States Tennis Association (USTA) as a national coach, helping to develop American tennis talent.
His experience as both a player and coach has been invaluable to Ben.
He’s got some good blood running through him, that’s for sure
Bryan Shelton
Growing up with a father who understands the demands of professional tennis gave Ben a unique advantage.
Bryan has been directly involved in coaching Ben — helping to develop his son’s game, strategy and mental toughness.
Ben has opened up about the benefits of having his dad as a coach, highlighting how his guidance has been a cornerstone of his success.
At a press conference during the 2023 Australian Open, Ben said: “He’s definitely been the biggest influence in my tennis.
“Being a former pro, going through this whole process in a similar way…
“To be able to learn from him, with all the life experience he has, it wasn’t just an easy street for him, so he knows all of the hardships and struggles of being out here, making it on tour — it’s priceless to be able to have that knowledge and that person to go to.
“His tennis analytical mind is one of the best I’ve ever seen.”
(From left to right) Bryan Shelton, Lisa Shelton, Trinity Rodman and Emma Shelton cheering Ben on at Wimbledon 2025[/caption]
And his parents are equally aware of their influence over Ben’s game.
In 2022, Bryan told the New York Times: “We kid around, like which genes is Ben playing with, the Shelton genes or the Witsken genes?
“He’s got some good blood running through him, that’s for sure.”
Ben’s mom Lisa Witsken Shelton
Lisa Witsken Shelton also has a rich background in tennis.
She was a highly ranked junior player and competed at the collegiate level.
Her brother Todd Witsken was also a professional tennis player who achieved a top 50 ATP singles ranking.
He was known for his doubles game — he reached as high as No. 4 in the world in the doubles rankings.
Lisa eventually shifted her focus away from competitive tennis and pursued a career outside of sports.
But she remains an avid supporter of Ben’s athletic pursuits, cheering him on from the sidelines with her husband at many of her son’s tournament appearances.
