Shelton, Auger-Aliassime inspire each other at Laver Cup

Ben Shelton and Felix Auger-Aliassime are enjoying each other’s company, and learning from each other, at Laver Cup.

Auger-Aliassime, Laver Cup 2023 – © Zuma / Panoramic

September 24, 2023

It was obvious from the minute they took the court for the first time together at Laver Cup on Saturday night in Vancouver. Ben Shelton and Felix Auger-Aliassime are on the same page.

After they secured a 7-5, 6-4 win over Gael Monfils and Hubert Hurkacz the pair talked about their relationship.

"We call him 'Laver Cup Felix' … so just happy I got to share the court with him at least once."

Team World respect on full display.#LaverCup pic.twitter.com/9xjJayOsez
— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 24, 2023

Felix on Ben: “I love to see guys who love competing”

The Canadian says he really enjoys the intensity and swagger that Shelton brings to the court.

“From the first time I saw Ben, I saw a guy who was just – I love to see guys who love competing and are happy to be out there and they bring this good energy,” he said. “He’s focused, he’s driven. You were saying, like, it’s been an incredible month for him, but it feels like he’s been there for longer than a couple of months. Feels like he belongs and he acts that way.

“It’s great to see, and I get along well with him and I think a great family also. It’s great.”

Perhaps the typically reserved Auger-Aliassime will become inspired to come out of his shell a bit more after watching Shelton.

Shelton on Auger-Aliassime: “Something that I can aspire to”

Shelton says that he is impressed by the Canadian’s professionalism and his attention to detail.

The American, who is typically bursting with energy, might learn something from the way that Auger-Aliassime never gets too high or too low on a tennis court.

“I have always looked up to Felix since I have been out here on tour from such a young age, doing the things that he’s done in this game already,” he said. “Being as focused as he is on his craft and as hard-working, that’s something that I can aspire to do in the future.

“I feel like sometimes I can get unfocused or, you know, be looking around during practice or not locked in all the time. One of the greatest things about Felix is his professionalism, discipline. That’s really cool to be around, see the way that him and his team work. That’s been pretty special for me ever since I have been out on tour, so yeah, definitely a guy I look up to and respect a lot.”