Coco Gauff reacts to Ben Shelton achieving major milestone by breaking into top 10 of ATP rankings
Coco Gauff has not publicly shared a direct reaction to Ben Shelton’s milestone of breaking into the top 10 of the ATP rankings on June 16, 2025, following his semi-final run at the Boss Open in Stuttgart, per ATP Tour. However, their close friendship and history of playful banter suggest she would likely celebrate his achievement with her signature humor or support. Gauff and Shelton, both 22, have forged a strong bond, often seen in social media exchanges, joint practice sessions, and off-court outings like escape rooms, per EssentiallySports.
Context of Shelton’s Milestone
Shelton, now ranked No. 10, became the third American in the ATP top 10 alongside Taylor Fritz (No. 4) and Tommy Paul (No. 8), a feat not seen since 2006 with Andre Agassi, James Blake, and Andy Roddick, per ATP Tour. His Stuttgart semi-final win over Jiri Lehecka (6-4, 6-4) sealed the ranking jump, prompting a stunned reaction: “I’m going to go look and see with my own eyes before I believe it,” per Tennis Up To Date. Gauff, who marked her 100th consecutive week in the WTA top 10 in 2024, has previously hyped Shelton’s successes, like commenting “Only getting started” with a fire emoji on his 2023 US Open semi-final post, per EssentiallySports.
Gauff and Shelton’s Bond
Their camaraderie shines through in moments like Gauff’s playful dig at Shelton’s Florida Gators fandom on X in 2023, asking, “Did you write this? 😂,” per Tennis Up To Date, or her quip about his long hair during the 2023 Madrid Open, per EssentiallySports. Despite persistent dating rumors, Gauff confirmed her relationship with Jalen Sera in 2025, while Shelton is linked to USWNT star Trinity Rodman, per Us Magazine. Gauff has called Shelton a “little brother,” emphasizing their platonic connection, per Daily Express US.
Anticipated Support
Given Gauff’s track record of cheering Shelton—such as her rocket emoji for his 149 mph serve at the 2023 US Open, per Sportskeeda—she’s likely to acknowledge his top-10 debut privately or publicly soon, perhaps with a witty remark. As both gear up for Wimbledon 2025, Gauff’s focus remains on her grass season, starting at the Berlin Open, while Shelton competes at Queen’s Club, per WTA and ATP Tour.
