21-Year-Old Ben Shelton Wins First ATP Tour Title at Japan Open, Joins Three Other Americans in Top 15 Rankings

Shelton, who began the year ranked 96th, marks a career-high following his decisive Japan Open victory; he joins Taylor Fritz, Tommy Paul, and Frances Tiafoe in the ATP Top 15, an American presence not seen since 1997.

21-year-old Atlanta native Ben Shelton managed to clinch his first ATP tour title with a victory over Aslan Karatsev at the Japan Open, bringing him to the ATP rankings' top 15.
Shelton's significant rise in rank marks the first occasion since 1997 that four American men have secured a spot in the ATP top 15; other American players in the top 15 include Taylor Fritz, Tommy Paul, and Frances Tiafoe.
Along with his victory at the Japan Open, Shelton has had a phenomenal year with career highlights including making it to the US Open's semifinals and the Australian Open's quarterfinals.
Despite his current ranking, Shelton started the season at number 96 in the ATP rankings; he attributes his success to his ability to learn from both wins and losses.
Beyond the American players in the top 15, U.S tennis has several other promising names making strides, notable among them are Sebi Korda, Chris Eubanks, Mackenzie McDonald, and Marcos Giron.