The camaraderie between professional tennis players often extends beyond the court, creating friendships that fans love to follow. Taylor Townsend and Ben Shelton share one such close bond, frequently supporting each other’s careers. Recently, this connection took a lovely turn as Townsend shared a heartwarming update on social media featuring her son.
Taylor Townsend Compares Her Son’s Tennis Skills With Ben Shelton’s
Townsend and Shelton are known for a strong friendship that has been evident since their partnership at the 2023 US Open. The duo teamed up for the mixed doubles event, where their chemistry and mutual energy took them to the semifinals.
Since then, they have remained close friends, often cheering for one another and engaging in lighthearted banter. Interestingly, this bond is not just limited to these two themselves but seemingly extends to Townsend’s family, particularly her young son, Adyn Aubrey Johnson, affectionately known as AJ.
Townsend recently took to her Instagram story to share a clip that captured the attention of tennis fans. The video featured her four-year-old son practicing on the tennis courts, showcasing a natural flair that caught his mother’s eye.
In the caption, Townsend couldn’t help but draw a direct parallel to her good friend, writing, “AJ got that sauce on the FH like @benshelton😂🤯♥️” She playfully suggested that AJ is already adopting the “sauce,” the unique style that characterizes Shelton’s powerful forehand.
Shelton’s forehand is widely regarded as one of the most electric shots on the ATP Tour, known for its high velocity. For Townsend to compare her son’s developing technique to such a distinct weapon is a high compliment, wrapped in the warmth of their friendship. AJ has been a regular presence on tour with his mother, traveling to tournaments and growing up around the sport.
Townsend and Shelton’s Recent On-Court Performances
The 2026 season has been challenging for both players despite such off-court fun moments. Townsend began her year at the Australian Open in Melbourne and managed to reach the main draw after navigating through the qualifying stages.
However, she faced a tough hurdle in the opening round, going up against fellow American Hailey Baptiste. Despite her resilience, Baptiste bested her friend with the final score reading 6-3, 7-6(3), 6-3, ending Townsend’s singles campaign.
MORE: Everything to Know About Taylor Townsend’s Son Adyn Who Is Cheering Her on at US Open
She also participated in the Women’s doubles alongside Kateřina Siniaková and reached the quarterfinals, but lost to the seventh-seeded duo of Aleksandra Krunić and Anna Danilina. While teaming up with Nikola Mektić in the mixed doubles, the duo achieved even more success, reaching the semifinals, only to lose against the Australian pair of John Peers and Olivia Gadecki.
Shelton, on the other hand, enjoyed a deeper run at the first Grand Slam of the year. He displayed impressive form and managed to reach the quarterfinals, marking another strong showing at a major. However, his campaign was halted by the two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner in a highly anticipated clash, defeating Shelton 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 in straight sets.
Looking to bounce back immediately, Shelton is currently competing at the Dallas Open. He made a successful return to action, winning his first-round match against Canada’s Gabriel Diallo, closing out the match with a solid 6-4, 6-4 victory.