'Tough Relationship But Trust Is Special': Connors On Players Being Coached By Parents

Jimmy Connors shared his thoughts about the complicated coaching partnership between players and their parents in light of Ben Shelton 's current situation.

Shelton has rocketed up the rankings in the past 12 months to become the fastest-rising star of American tennis. After a successful stint as a college player at the University of Florida, Shelton turned professional in the summer of 2022 and has enjoyed a breakout year on the main tour in 2023.

The 21-year-old's first full season on the ATP Tour has been a revelation. He reached a first Grand Slam semifinal at the US Open in September and won a maiden ATP title in Tokyo a few weeks later, rising to inside the world's Top 15. Shelton also leads the charge among U.S. men in the Olympics Race qualification.

A lot of credit obviously goes to his father, Bryan Shelton, the man behind the wheel. Shelton Sr. has coached his son since the tender age of 12. He was the one who advised Ben Shelton to devote his time and energy to becoming the best young player in the United States before he dreamed about playing tennis tournaments all over the world.

Sticking to that advice, Ben Shelton is now reaping handsome rewards. His father was forced to quit his longtime job as the men's Head Coach of the Florida Gators in order to become his son's full-time coach . They have been traveling as a pair to tennis tournaments all year.

Shelton's success in Japan made him and his father the fourth father-son duo to win titles on the ATP Tour. But in a recent episode of the Advantage Connors podcast, former ATP No. 1 Jimmy Connors predicts some turmoil at some point, describing how burdensome it can be for players to be under the constant guidance of their parents .

At the same time, the 71-year-old opined that the relationship is special given the high level of trust.

"His (Ben's) dad is his coach and who has the experience of being out on the tour and playing himself. So, you know their ego again, which is good. I know how it was with my mom. Sometimes, that could be a tough relationship if you are listening to your mom or you are listening to your dad and they're trying to coach you to become a better player."

"But I mean, there's nobody that's in your corner more than them. So, the trust there is pretty special."