About this episode
What does it take to raise and coach a Grand Slam quarterfinalist? In this Tennis Insider Club episode, Bryan Shelton — former ATP pro, champion college coach, and father of rising star Ben Shelton — opens up about the unique challenges of guiding your own child through tennis. From growing up in Alabama to facing Boris Becker at Wimbledon, Bryan shares the lessons that shaped his career… and the philosophy that keeps his son grounded in a high-pressure sport. We discuss: The dangers of over-involved tennis parents Why mental skills matter more than strokes at the top level How to balance joy, discipline, and performance The difference between European and American confidence mindsets Why sometimes you have to “fake” confidence until you feel it Best Moments: [00:01:03] The Day Bryan Shelton Fell in Love with Tennis [00:03:00] Why He Chose College Over Turning Pro at 18 [00:07:30] Facing Becker and Connors in His First Grand Slams [00:10:00] Breaking Into the Top 100: A Pro’s First Goal [00:11:00] Wimbledon 1994: His Greatest Memory on Tour [00:14:00] From Player to Coach: Bryan’s Second Career [00:17:00] How Ben Shelton Finally Chose Tennis at 11 [00:23:30] Ben’s Secret Weapon: Relentless Confidence [00:27:10] The Three Tournament Rule Every Young Player Needs [00:43:00] Balancing Dad and Coach on the Pro Tour Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.