If tasked with selecting a Christmas gift for his idol, Ben Shelton admits it would be nearly impossible. When asked what he would give the Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer, Shelton humbly confessed he couldn’t think of anything meaningful since Federer seemingly has everything, thanks to his extraordinary achievements. This simple yet sincere response reflects Shelton’s deep admiration for Federer and underscores how tennis unites players and fans through a shared love for the sport.
Shelton’s answer also revealed his limited knowledge about Federer’s personal interests, despite their connection through the Swiss sportswear brand On. This brand, which has Federer as a partner and stakeholder since 2019, has been sponsoring Shelton for apparel and shoes since March 2023. Despite his time with On, Shelton admitted he still doesn’t know much about Federer’s preferences.
Recently, the Tennis Channel featured a video where players such as Jessica Pegula, Emma Navarro, and Ben Shelton were asked what they would gift other tennis personalities for Christmas. When Shelton was questioned about being Federer’s secret Santa, he appeared shy and unable to decide on a gift. “I don’t know. I feel like he has everything,” he said, smiling and blushing when Federer’s name came up. His genuine response highlighted his immense respect for the Swiss icon, whose illustrious career and gracious personality have made him a role model for many.
Shelton’s admiration for Federer isn’t new. His father, Bryan Shelton, previously shared how the Swiss maestro, alongside Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, inspired Ben’s tennis journey. Before Ben’s 2023 US Open semifinal match against Djokovic, Bryan emphasized the importance of the Big Three as role models. He stated, “I think he’s got amazing examples over this last 20-year stretch with Roger and Rafa and Novak, of guys that continually look to get better. I mean, so if those guys can look to get better every single day and they’re the standard of excellence at the very top of the game for a long period of time, like you’re talking about, that’s a good example for him to follow.”
In past interviews, Ben Shelton has openly admired Federer’s versatility and charisma. Reflecting on Federer’s multifaceted appeal, Shelton once said, “Roger is one of those guys who can do it all. He can do it on the court, he can do it off the court, he can do it at the Met Gala, he can do it at Wimbledon.” These words encapsulate Shelton’s respect for Federer, not just as a tennis legend but as a global icon who carries himself with grace and charm in every setting.
Shelton’s humility and reverence for Federer highlight the true spirit of sportsmanship in today’s competitive tennis world. His inability to think of a gift for Federer stems not from a lack of effort but from a belief that Federer’s accomplishments are so vast that no material gift could ever match them. This attitude underscores Shelton’s genuine character, reflecting how admiration for one’s idol can transcend the game itself.