BEN SHELTON QUESTIONS REPORTER ON FASHION RATINGS AFTER DC OPEN WIN

Ben Shelton defeated Martin Damm Jr. in three sets at the Mubadala DC Open on 30 July 2026 to advance to the Round of 16. At the post-match press conference, when asked about early exits by American players from the ATP 500 event, Shelton responded by turning the question back on the reporter. He asked whether the reporter, known for rating players' on-court outfits on social media, would comment on his own outfit at the tournament. Shelton described his sage-coloured kit as "one of my favourites".

The reporter had raised the topic after Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe, among other American competitors, had exited the tournament. Térence Atmane, a 24-year-old French player, had defeated Tiafoe 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in an earlier round. The exchange between Shelton and the reporter became a playful discussion about fashion before addressing the substantive question. Shelton's appearance at the Mubadala DC Open came after what he described as a disappointing end to his previous tournament at SW19.

After the light-hearted exchange concluded, Shelton offered a substantive response to the original question about American players' performance. He stated that early rounds can be difficult for players who have not competed recently, and that playing on American soil carries emotional significance. Shelton holds a current world ranking of No. 8, according to the report.