Ben Shelton shares what Coco Gauff is ‘always’ doing behind the scenes which he currently has no answer for

Can we take a moment to appreciate the playful banter going on in tennis locker rooms? Ben Shelton, fresh off his stunning Canadian Open Masters 1000 win, just had us smiling when he revealed what Coco Gauff is “always” doing behind the scenes—and frankly, he has no comeback.

In a recent interview with the Tennis Channel, Shelton casually dropped this gem: Coco Gauff has been “talking smack” about the impressive dominance of American women over the men in Grand Slam tennis. And yeah… he’s speechless—literally.

Here’s the context: while players like Gauff, Sofia Kenin, and Madison Keys have lifted Grand Slam trophies in recent years, the American men haven’t celebrated that kind of victory since Andy Roddick’s US Open win in 2003. Talk about a drought!

Shelton mused on the attention always focused on American players, acknowledging the inevitable expectation for a breakthrough. “I don’t know who it’s going to be or when,” he said, “but we’ve got something to chase.” Then he chuckled, adding: “We’re just trying to catch up to the girls. Coco likes talking smack, and you know, I can’t say anything back because they’ve had us forever.” Ouch—in the most fun way possible.

Why this is such a fun moment

Friendly Rivalry: There’s something delightful about this good-natured teasing between colleagues. It reminds us that behind the tennis superstars are young, spirited athletes who don’t mind laughing at—or with—themself.
The Women’s Game Reigns: It’s impossible to ignore the dominance of American women in tennis. Six Grand Slam titles since 2003, with Serena (17), Venus (3), Sloane Stephens (1), Sofia Kenin (1), Madison Keys (1), and Coco Gauff (2)—that’s twenty-five major trophies!
Men with Momentum: The guys aren’t far behind. Shelton’s breakthrough win in Toronto, his strong showings in other tournaments, and the depth of up-and-coming talent mean that an American man lifting a Grand Slam trophy again feels closer than ever.

So there you have it: Just a light, charming moment in tennis headlines—a proud shout-out to American women’s tennis, a playful jab at the guys, and absolutely zero comebacks from Shelton. It’s all in good fun, and it makes us love the sport that much more.