Shelton Responds to Johnson’s College Tennis Claim

American tennis player Ben Shelton has responded to Steve Johnson’s bold assertion regarding their potential college tennis match, according to recent reports.

Shelton, currently ranked number six in the ATP rankings, transitioned to professional tennis after a successful stint with the Florida Gators from 2020 to 2022. During his time there, he played a vital role in securing their first-ever team national championship in 2021.

In a recent podcast appearance, Johnson, a former American tennis professional, stated that he believes he would have been victorious if he had faced Shelton during their college years.

Johnson’s Perspective

“I would defeat him without any difficulty. I wouldn’t be defeated in that particular match. For a continuous period of two years, I was undefeated,” Johnson stated.

Johnson, 35, previously competed for the University of Southern California Trojans in collegiate tennis. Over his four years, he was instrumental in the Trojans’ multiple team title victories. He also clinched the NCAA Singles title twice and earned Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) All-American honors seven times.

However, Johnson conceded that if they were to face each other at their peak on the ATP Tour, Ben Shelton would likely emerge as the victor.

Johnson acknowledged Shelton’s current prowess and suggested he is yet to reach his full potential.

“A prime Ben Shelton on the ATP Tour would likely outperform a prime Steve Johnson quite convincingly. If we are considering their tour performances, Ben hasn’t even come close to reaching his prime,” Johnson elaborated.

Shelton’s Reaction

Shelton responded to Johnson’s remarks on Instagram, expressing his agreement with the former professional player.

“He would definitely beat me,” Shelton commented.