Ben Shelton Has 'Cupping' Marks at Wimbledon. What Are The Bruises?
Tennis pro Ben Shelton was competing against Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon on July 9, when the announcer drew attention to the round marks that are visible on his arms, calling them evidence of "cupping."
What is "cupping" and why would Shelton do it?
He's been open about the topic in the past.
Shelton also had the cupping bruises on his arms at the U.S. Open, which sparked conversation about the practice, according to Grio.
According to Grio, cupping "is a form of therapy believed to remove negative pressure from the body."
It's used in traditional Chinese medicine, and athletes "use cupping to address blood flow, muscle stiffness and pain and improve muscle regeneration between games," Grio wrote.
Shaquille O'Neal is among the prominent athletes who have used cupping, according to the New York Times.
The surface of the skin is strongly sucked by the vacuum pressure in the cup, opening capillary vessels and pores. It allows toxins to be excreted. It also hurts," the Times wrote, quoting O'Neal as saying, "Like a tattoo. Not that bad."
Shelton has an NBA tie himself. He is dating Dennis Rodman's daughter, Trinity, although she doesn't like that being mentioned by announcers because they are estranged.
Fans noticed the red marks on Shelton's arms earlier in the Wimbledon tournament, also.
An article by Harvard Health Publishing explored the claims around cupping for athletes.
"A recent review of the treatment describes cupping as a treatment that can strengthen the body's resistance, restore balance between positive and negative forces, remove disease-causing factors, and promote blood circulation. But exactly how is unclear," it says.
Swimming legend Michael Phelps has also been seen with cupping marks on his body, sparking talk about the practice during the Olympics.
Shelton was playing in the quarter-finals on July 9 against Sinner, who is ranked number one in the world.
Related: Ben Shelton's Girlfriend Trinity Rodman Speaks Out About Dad Dennis Rodman