In the competitive world of professional tennis, Ben Shelton, a 22-year-old American player, has been turning heads with his powerful serves and impressive athleticism. Despite these strengths, Shelton has faced challenges in translating his potential into consistent victories. After making significant strides in 2023, including reaching the quarterfinals and semifinals in two Grand Slams, Shelton entered the 2024 Australian Open as the world No. 21. His biggest hurdle? Improving his return game, a critical skill that has held him back from realizing his full potential.

Shelton's serve is nothing short of remarkable. Capable of reaching speeds around 150mph, it often leaves opponents scrambling. However, this advantage comes at a cost. His ability to handle returns has lagged behind, a weakness that became evident during his first-round match against compatriot Brandon Nakashima at the Australian Open. While Shelton managed to secure a 7-6(3), 7-5, 7-5 victory, the struggle to return effectively was clear. This issue has been a recurring theme throughout his career, especially as he transitioned from college tennis to the ATP Tour.

The evolution of tennis technology has significantly impacted the sport. In the past, players like Pete Sampras thrived on their powerful serves, which averaged around 119mph. Today, nearly every top player can serve at speeds exceeding 125mph, shifting the advantage to those who excel at returning. Shelton's serve may be formidable, but his return statistics tell a different story. According to data from Tennis Data Innovations, Shelton returns only 58% of first serves compared to the tour average of 62%. His second-serve return rate of 77% also falls below the tour's 82% average. These numbers highlight the need for improvement if Shelton aims to compete at the highest level.

Shelton acknowledges the importance of enhancing his return game. During an exhibition match in New York, he emphasized the focus on not giving away free points and playing conservatively early in points to create opportunities. His strategy involves adapting to the pressure and trusting himself in crucial moments. Shelton's journey to becoming a better returner has included experimenting with quick grip changes and improving his reactions during off-season training. He recognizes the playbook servers use against him and is working diligently to counteract these tactics.

Despite recent setbacks, including dropping four out of five matches leading up to the Australian Open, Shelton remains optimistic. He believes his return game is evolving and is committed to bridging the gap between his serving prowess and his returning skills. For Shelton, the path to deeper Grand Slam runs begins with mastering the art of returning serves. As he continues to refine this aspect of his game, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if he can achieve the success many believe he is capable of.