Who are Ben Shelton’s parents? Inside the family background and tennis journey of Bryan and Lisa

Ben Shelton’s rising star in world tennis is rooted in a deep family legacy. His parents, Bryan Shelton and Lisa Witsken Shelton, brought extensive high-level tennis experience into his life, while his older sister, Emma Shelton, completes a close-knit support system that follows him across the globe. From his father’s transition from tour veteran to full-time coach, to his mother’s standout lineage, family fuels every step of the American’s professional journey.Bryan Shelton: From ATP Veteran to Full-Time CoachBryan Shelton spent nine years on the ATP tour, earning two singles titles and reaching a career-high world ranking of No. 55. His landmark playing moment came at Wimbledon in 1994, where he advanced to the round of 16 as a qualifier. After retiring, Bryan shifted to coaching, winning an NCAA title with the Georgia Tech women’s team before taking over the Florida Gators men’s program. There, he coached Ben to a national team title in 2021 and an individual NCAA singles title in 2022.In June 2023, Bryan stepped down from college coaching to become Ben's full-time traveling coach on the ATP tour. Ben shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram to celebrate his dad's collegiate career:"My dad retired from collegiate coaching today. Congrats on everything you’ve accomplished in your 24 years out there. This isn’t a career that’s defined by championships and accolades, but by the people impacted and lives changed. You showed up to work every day and gave a perfect effort. You did things with character and humility no matter the situation. You’ve kept your faith wherever your life has taken you, and always put your family first. There isn’t a better role model for young men trying to find their way in life. The Gator Nation may have suffered a blow with this one, but we always bounce back. That being said, the dream team is back together baby Can’t wait to have you out on tour with me, and see what we can accomplish together."Lisa Witsken Shelton and Emma Shelton: The FoundationLisa Shelton was a top junior tennis competitor before pursuing a career in real estate in Gainesville, Florida.Tennis runs deep on her side of the family as well; her late brother, Todd Witsken, was a three-time All-American at USC who achieved world rankings of No. 4 in doubles and No. 43 in singles.Ben's older sister, Emma Shelton, born in March 2001, also competed at the NCAA Division I level, playing for South Carolina and Florida. After graduating in 2023 with a degree in finance, she joined Morgan Stanley as an associate. During Wimbledon, Ben made headlines by asking her employer for extra time off so she could stay and watch his run. Morgan Stanley granted the request, allowing Emma to cheer him on alongside their parents.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.