CNN
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It was a historic moment at the US Open quarterfinals as Frances Tiafoe and Ben Shelton, both African American players, faced off for the first time. The match caught attention not only for its significance but also for the quality of play shown by both athletes.
In a thrilling contest, it was Shelton who emerged victorious, defeating Tiafoe in a four-set match. Shelton’s stunning performance has earned him a place in the semifinals against the legendary Novak Djokovic.
This match also marked the first time since 2008 that two Black men competed against each other at Arthur Ashe Stadium. As the tennis world waits for an American male champion at the US Open, this historic match serves as a reminder of the progress made by Black players in the sport.
“This is something special, a cosmic event,” said Art Carrington, a former professional tennis player turned coach, in an interview before the match.
Carrington also emphasized the impact that Tiafoe and Shelton’s personalities will have in enriching the game of tennis.
The match between these two rising stars has reignited the conversation around Black men in tennis. Taking place at Arthur Ashe Stadium, named after the trailblazing Black tennis legend, it is a symbolic moment in the sport’s history.
Arthur Ashe was not only the first African American man to be ranked No. 1 in tennis but also a multiple-time champion at major tournaments. His achievements paved the way for future Black American players to excel in the sport.
Carrington, who once practiced with Ashe, stressed the importance of visibility for young Black Americans in tennis. He believes that witnessing Black players succeed will inspire future generations to pursue the sport.
“We must make tennis visible, showcasing the talent and achievements of Black players,” Carrington expressed.
He also highlighted the need for more stories about African American men in tennis, stating that the Tiafoe-Shelton match is a significant moment in this regard.
Both Tiafoe and Shelton were introduced to the sport at a young age. Tiafoe grew up in a tennis champion center, where his father worked, while Shelton followed in the footsteps of his professional tennis champion father.
Tiafoe’s journey has already seen him make history as the first Black American man to reach a US Open semifinal since Ashe’s feat in 1972.
Shelton, with the guidance of his father, left his coaching position to focus on his professional tennis career.
Carrington emphasized the responsibility of older generations to inspire younger ones by passing on their love for the game.
However, Carrington advised both Tiafoe and Shelton to focus on enjoying the moment rather than getting overwhelmed by its historic significance.
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