Ben Shelton's String Setup: What Tension Does He Use?

Hey tennis enthusiasts! Ever wondered what goes into the rocket behind Ben Shelton's powerful serves and groundstrokes? Well, a big part of it comes down to his string setup. Let's dive deep into the specifics of what strings Ben Shelton uses and what tension he prefers to string them at.

Decoding Ben Shelton's String Choice

When we talk about tennis strings, we're not just talking about those colorful strands you see crisscrossing on a racquet. The string type significantly influences the feel, power, control, and spin you get on your shots. Ben Shelton, known for his aggressive and explosive game, needs a string setup that complements his style. He relies on a hybrid string configuration, combining two different types of strings to harness the best of both worlds. This is a pretty common approach among professional players, as it allows for customization tailored to their specific needs.

So, what exactly does Ben Shelton use? He uses a combination of Luxilon Alu Power Rough in the mains and Wilson Natural Gut in the crosses. Luxilon Alu Power Rough is a very popular choice on the ATP tour, which is a textured monofilament string known for its durability, control, and spin potential. The texturing helps grip the ball, allowing players like Ben to generate massive topspin. On the other hand, Wilson Natural Gut is the king of comfort and feel. Natural gut strings are made from cow intestines (yes, you read that right!) and offer unparalleled elasticity and responsiveness. Combining natural gut with a poly like Alu Power Rough gives Ben a blend of power, control, feel, and comfort. The natural gut softens the stiffness of the poly, creating a more arm-friendly setup, while the poly provides the needed control and spin for aggressive hitting.

The hybrid string setup allows Shelton to maintain control during his powerful shots while still providing enough feel for delicate touches around the net. The choice of string also speaks volumes about a player's priorities. In Ben's case, it's clear he values a balance of power, spin, and comfort, allowing him to play his best tennis without compromising on arm health.

Ben Shelton's String Tension: Finding the Sweet Spot

The string type is only half the story; the string tension plays a crucial role. String tension refers to how tightly the strings are pulled when they are strung in the racquet. Tension is measured in pounds (lbs) or kilograms (kg), and it affects how the ball interacts with the string bed. Higher tension generally provides more control but less power and comfort, while lower tension offers more power and comfort but less control. Finding the right string tension is a delicate balancing act, and it's highly individual to each player.

Ben Shelton typically strings his racquets around 53lbs (24kg). However, it's important to note that this is just an approximate value. Pro players often adjust their string tension based on various factors, including the court surface, weather conditions, and even their opponent. For example, on a hot day when the ball is flying more, Ben might increase his string tension by a pound or two to gain more control. Conversely, on a cold day when the ball feels heavy, he might lower his string tension to get more power. Also, humidity can impact the way the string plays. If the humidity is high, the string can expand and lose tension faster than in dry conditions.

It's also worth noting that string tension can change over time as you play. As you hit the ball, the strings gradually lose tension, which can affect the feel and performance of the racquet. Some players prefer the feel of freshly strung racquets, while others like the feel of strings that have settled in a bit. Ben probably gets his racquets restrung very frequently, considering he is a professional player. Understanding how string tension affects your game is crucial for optimizing your performance and preventing injuries. If you're experimenting with different string tensions, it's a good idea to make small adjustments and pay attention to how the ball feels coming off your racquet.

Why This String Setup Works for Ben Shelton

So, why does Ben Shelton go with this particular string setup and tension? Several factors come into play. First, his aggressive playing style demands a setup that provides both power and control. The Luxilon Alu Power Rough string allows him to generate tremendous spin on his forehand and serve, keeping the ball within the lines even when he's going for broke. The Wilson Natural Gut adds a touch of feel and comfort, preventing the stiff poly string from feeling too harsh on his arm. Without the natural gut, Ben might develop tennis elbow from the impact of the ball on the string bed.

Second, Ben's preference for a relatively moderate string tension of around 53lbs reflects his desire for a balance of power and control. A lower tension would give him more power but less control, potentially leading to more errors. A higher tension would give him more control but less power, potentially making it harder for him to hit through the court. By staying in the middle ground, Ben can maximize both aspects of his game. He's able to hit with pace and aggression while still maintaining a good level of accuracy. It also allows him to generate more power without having to swing as hard, which can help prevent fatigue during long matches.

Finally, Ben's string setup is also influenced by his physical attributes and playing style. He's a big, strong player with a fast swing speed, so he can generate plenty of power even with a relatively high string tension. He also likes to take big cuts at the ball and go for winners, so he needs a setup that gives him the confidence to swing freely without fear of spraying the ball long or wide. The combination of Luxilon Alu Power Rough and Wilson Natural Gut at 53lbs provides that confidence, allowing him to play his best tennis on any surface.

Choosing the Right Strings for Your Game

While it's fascinating to analyze Ben Shelton's string setup, it's important to remember that what works for him might not work for you. Choosing the right string and tension is a highly personal process that depends on your playing style, skill level, and physical characteristics. With that being said, here are some tips to consider when choosing the right string for your game.

Consider your playing style. Are you an aggressive baseliner who likes to hit with a lot of power and spin, or are you a more defensive player who relies on consistency and accuracy? If you're an aggressive player, you might benefit from a stiffer string like a polyester or a hybrid setup that combines polyester with a softer string. If you're a more defensive player, you might prefer a softer string like multifilament or natural gut. Think about what aspects of your game you want to improve. Do you want more power, more control, more spin, or more comfort? The right string can help you achieve your goals. Experiment with different string types and tensions to see what feels best for you. Don't be afraid to try new things and step outside of your comfort zone. It might take some time to find the perfect setup, but the effort will be worth it in the end. Consult with a stringing professional or a knowledgeable tennis coach. They can offer valuable insights and recommendations based on your individual needs and preferences. They can also help you fine-tune your string tension and make sure your racquet is properly strung.

Ultimately, the best way to find the right string setup is to experiment and see what works best for you. Don't be afraid to try different things and adjust your setup as your game evolves. With a little bit of research and experimentation, you can find the perfect string and tension to help you play your best tennis. Ben Shelton has clearly found a setup that works wonders for him, and you can too!