Get ready for some exciting tennis news! Ben Shelton's journey to the 2026 Australian Open begins now, and he's got a plan!
Shelton, fresh off his best Grand Slam season yet, is already looking ahead to the next challenge. But here's where it gets controversial... he's sticking to a familiar path to prepare for the first major of the year.
In a recent post, Shelton revealed his decision to participate in the ASB Classic in Auckland for the fourth year in a row. This ATP 250 tournament, starting on January 12th, acts as a crucial warm-up event for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18th. It's a strategy that Shelton believes has worked well for him in the past.
"For me, the ASB Classic has been a great launchpad," Shelton shared. "It's a place where I feel at home, and I've had some fantastic matches there. It's a great way to start the year, and I'm excited to be back."
But why is this decision so intriguing? Well, Shelton's track record at the ASB Classic speaks for itself. In 2023, he advanced to the quarterfinals in Melbourne after a strong showing in Auckland. The following year, he reached the semifinals in Auckland and put up a good fight at the Australian Open. This year, despite a first-round loss in Auckland, he went on to reach the final four at a major tournament.
So, is this a sign of things to come? Will Shelton's consistent preparation pay off in 2026? And this is the part most people miss... Shelton's world ranking of six means he's a serious contender for the Australian Open title. With a successful run in Auckland under his belt, he could be a force to be reckoned with.
What do you think? Is Shelton's strategy a smart move, or is he missing out on a better opportunity by sticking to the same routine? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We'd love to hear your opinions on this tennis star's path to the Australian Open.
