The Journey to Outplay a Pro Parent

In the world of tennis, where the legacy of professional players often influences the next generation, the moment a child surpasses their parent is a significant milestone. This article delves into the experiences of several players who have achieved this feat, offering a glimpse into their journeys and the emotional and competitive aspects involved.

Ben Shelton: The Reluctant Rival

Ben Shelton, under the tutelage of his father Bryan Shelton, a former professional, has made remarkable strides in his career. However, Bryan has always been hesitant to face his son on the court. "My dad never let me play against him," Ben shared in an interview. This reluctance highlights the unique dynamics between a parent and child in a competitive sport.

Casper Ruud: A Competitive Bond

Casper Ruud, son of former top-40 player Christian Ruud, recalls the competitive matches they had when he was younger. "I tend to say I was 15, and he would say, no, you were like 17," Casper mentioned, showcasing the playful dispute over when he first outplayed his father. These matches were not just about competition but also about bonding and mutual respect.

Maria Sakkari: A Mother's Pride

Maria Sakkari, daughter of former top-40 player Angeliki Kanellopoulou, cherishes the training sessions she had with her mother. "I think she really enjoys the fact that I became better than her," Maria said, emphasizing the pride and support that comes from a parent who understands the rigors of professional tennis.

Denis Shapovalov: Coaching Over Competition

Denis Shapovalov, coached by his mother Tessa Shapovalova, a former pro player, has never played a full match against her. "We did some point situations and stuff like that," Denis recalled, highlighting the focus on coaching rather than direct competition.

Taylor Fritz: Surpassing a Legacy

Taylor Fritz, whose mother Kathy May was a top-10 player, found it significant to not only beat her but also surpass her career-high ranking. "I think it was [more of] a big deal to beat her career-high ranking," Taylor shared, marking a personal and professional milestone.

The Broader Impact

These stories illustrate the complex and often emotional journey of tennis players who outplay their professional parents. It's not just about the competition but also about the relationships, mentorship, and legacy that shape their careers.

Conclusion

The journey of these tennis prodigies is a testament to the enduring influence of their professional parents. Whether through direct competition or supportive coaching, the bond between parent and child in tennis is a unique and powerful force in the sport.