Justine Henin has praised 23-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic and billed him to “show the youngsters he’s the one with the legs and genius in his US Open showdown with Ben Shelton.
The 7-time Women’s singles GS champion also called rising American Ben Shelton “phenomenal” and admitted that she loves his “spectacular tennis”.
3-time US Open champion, Djokovic who will face Shelton in the semifinals of the tournament is just two wins away from sealing his fourth title. It will be their maiden meeting on the tour.
The 36-year-old downed another American hope Taylor Fritz (#9) in a comfortable fashion in straight sets in quarters while Shelton edged past countryman Frances Tiafoe in four sets to set a semifinal against the Serbian. Djokovic who won the French Open and Australian Open titles and closed his Wimbledon campaign as runner up is seeking to extend his major court to 24.
Talking to Eurosport, Henin lauded the talent of the Shelton and likened his game with joy to Carlos Alcaraz’s style of play.
“He’s phenomenal. He was already phenomenal when we discovered him at this level in Melbourne. I have to be honest, it’s been very tough for him in the weeks after,” said the Belgian.
“He has waited for the US Open to show himself again, and he’s chosen his moment well. We love his spectacular tennis. He exudes freshness and charisma.
“We’ve often talked about Carlos Alcaraz, about the notion of pleasure, and now he (Shelton) is enjoying it. We’re not going to compare them, but to be able to offer that to the American public is exceptional. It’s crazy to see him in the semi-finals.”
The Belgian also expressed her hope that the 20-year-old can test Djokovic in the semi-final, while suggesting the veteran statesman in men’s tennis will once again look to send a message to the young guns on the circuit.
“We want there to be a match. We want Shelton, with his tennis, to be able to upset him. Not that we don’t want to see Djokovic win, but we’re looking forward to this confrontation, this clash of styles too,” added Henin.
“Will he (Shelton) be able to stay carefree? He seems well on the way to doing so. He’s expended a lot of physical energy, and you can tell he’s worked hard on that.
“After that, when you’re up against Novak Djokovic on such an important date, it’s hard not to imagine him there. Djokovic will also have the pride to show the youngsters that he’s the one with the legs and the genius to win,” said the former WTA #1.