Shelton: I grew up as a Rafa mini-me

American Ben Shelton showed how much he idolised Rafael Nadal back in the day by dressing as a mini-me to the iconic Spaniard who will make the last appearance of his career this week at the Davis Cup Finals.

“Growing up, I was a big Rafa fan,” the 22-year-old said as his side prepared for an opening tie against Australia at the wrapup of a long season.

“I used to wear all his kits, his shoes, everything – a lot of neon colors.”

Shelton and teammates Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul all laid praise at the feet of the 38-year-old who will bow out this week on a home court due to a career’s  accumulation of injuries.

Added Shelton, son of a former ATP pro: “Being a (fellow) lefty, he’s a guy that I have always kind of watched and tried to learn things from..how to do things on and off the court, how to handle the press, how to win with class, how to lose with class.

“He could maybe be down 6-0, 5-0, 40-Love, and still have a chance to win. He’s one of those guys you never think is out of it, one of those almost perfect competitors.”

While the two have never met in a match, Shelton has trained with the great man. “To meet him him for the first time was pretty crazy. 

“I got to practice with him a few times, which was an amazing experience for me. It’s probably lucky that I never got to play him, but its an experience I wish I would have had.”

US No. 1 Taylor Fritz, fresh off his ATP Finals title defeat at the hands of Jannik Sinner in Turin, added his thoughts on Nadal.

“We obviously grew up watching him, watching Fed. He was pretty much like the perfect role model for younger tennis players, for kids.

“It’s been an honor to just get the chance to play him. It’s crazy that it’s the end of an era here.”

Main photo:- Ben Shelton wearing neon colours at 2024 US Open like his idol Rafa Nadal – by International Sports Fotos Ltd