LONDON – U.S. Open runner-up Ben Shelton has officially withdrawn from the upcoming Laver Cup event, with 16th-ranked Brandon Nakashima stepping in as his replacement on Team World, as confirmed by organizers on Thursday.
The specific reasons for Shelton’s withdrawal were not disclosed. However, he is scheduled to participate in the Davis Cup for the United States in the Czech Republic, which begins on Friday. This comes less than a week after Shelton faced Alexander Zverev in the final of the U.S. Open, marking a significant moment in his career.
Following his impressive performance at the U.S. Open, Shelton has achieved a career-high ranking of No. 4, showcasing his rapid ascent in the world of tennis. His debut in a Grand Slam final highlights his potential and skill on the court.
Brandon Nakashima, who will be making his Laver Cup debut, joins a formidable Team World roster that includes notable players such as Alex de Minaur, Taylor Fritz, Alexander Bublik, Learner Tien, and Francisco Cerundolo. The team is under the leadership of legendary captain Andre Agassi, adding a wealth of experience to the squad.
On the other side of the competition, Team Europe, captained by Yannick Noah, features a strong lineup, including Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, Flavio Cobolli, Rafael Jodar, Jakub Mensik, and Casper Ruud. This competitive setup promises an exciting event for tennis fans.
The Laver Cup, which draws inspiration from the Ryder Cup, is set to take place at the O2 Arena in London from September 25 to 27. This annual event has quickly become a highlight in the tennis calendar, celebrating the sport while fostering international competition.
___
See AP’s full tennis coverage here
