Ben Shelton returns to Laver Cup for Team World's title defense

One year after playing a major part in Team World's second consecutive Laver Cup victory last fall, American Ben Shelton will return for the competition's 2024 edition in Berlin. The 21-year-old will join Alex de Minaur, Tommy Paul and Taylor Fritz on captain John McEnroe's squad, with two roster positions still remaining for the defending champions.

After reaching the US Open semifinals in 2023, Shelton made a stunning Laver Cup debut in Vancouver, where he won three matches for the Team World. The American was victorious in his opening singles match against Arthur Fils and doubles matches with Felix Auger-Aliassime and Frances Tiafoe—the latter of which clinched the cup.

“I’m thrilled to be back on Team World,” said Shelton. “Playing Laver Cup was one of my highlights last year, and I can’t wait to team up with the guys in Berlin and defend the cup.”

Shelton continued his meteoric rise in the ATP rankings after his Laver Cup heroics last year. After opening the 2023 season with a breakout run to the Australian Open quarters, he won his first ATP title in Tokyo in October, then clinched his second crown this April in Houston. The Houston title moved him up to a career-high of World No. 14 and earned him a debut as the No. 1 American man.

Just two years ago, Shelton wrapped up a standout college career at the University of Florida, where he followed the 2021 team title with the 2022 individual singles crown.

“Ben thrives in a team environment and relishes the big stage,” said McEnroe, who is set to captain Team World for the final time before handing the reigns over to fellow American Andre Agassi. "He brings an incredible energy to the team and is a threat in both singles and doubles with a massive serve and fierce will to win.”