Ben Shelton Retires with Injury at US Open

But the physical toll soon became clear. With his shoulder clearly bothering him, Shelton’s serve lost its usual pop, and his forehand lacked its trademark firepower. Mannarino capitalized, dictating rallies with ease and taking the fourth set to force a decider. By this stage, Shelton was grimacing after nearly every point, his body language betraying the struggle to generate pace and control from his upper body.

At the changeover before the fifth set, Shelton was unable to continue. The retirement handed Mannarino the victory, while the Ashe Stadium crowd offered warm applause to a player who had given everything despite his injury.

For Shelton, the exit is a cruel blow. He had entered the US Open full of confidence after a strong summer swing and looked poised to build on that momentum to make a push toward Turin. Instead, he leaves with questions surrounding his fitness and recovery timeline.

American fans, who have embraced Shelton’s energy and fearless style, will be hoping the shoulder setback is not a long-term issue. His electrifying game has made him one of the most exciting young talents on tour, and the tennis world will be eagerly awaiting his return.