American tennis star Ben Shelton criticized television interviewers on the Australian Open on Tuesday following their quarterfinal victory, saying he believes several of the post-match interviews throughout the tournament have crossed the line.
Speaking to the media following his hard-fought victory over Lorenzo Sonego, Shelton closed his press conference with an offhand comment about player interviews, which have garnered attention this week after Novak Djokovic refused to give an interview following comments made about him and his fan base.
Novak Djokovic reacts after defeating Tomas Machac following their third-round match at the Australian Open tennis championships in Melbourne, Australia, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)
“I’ve been a little surprised this week by the way the broadcasters have treated the players,” Shelton, 22, said. “I don’t think that guy who made fun of Novak, I don’t think it was a single event. I’ve noticed it with different people, not just myself.”
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Shelton mentioned a number of incidents, including his on-court interview following his fourth-round victory over the 38-year-old. The French veteran Gael Monfils. The interviewer, Roger Rasheed, noted that Monfils is “almost your father.”
Shelton responded, “Was it a black joke?” Both players are black.
Rasheed replied: “I’m not sure.”
Ben Shelton, pictured, plays a backhand against Lorenzo Sonego during their quarterfinal match at the Australian Open tennis championships in Melbourne, Australia, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)
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Shelton also talked about his interview after the quarterfinal match, in which the interviewer commented that he probably wouldn’t have many fans in his semifinal match against reigning champion Jannik Sinner.
“I just don’t think that comment [is] respectful from a guy I’ve never met in my life,” Shelton said.
“I feel like broadcasters should help us grow our sport and help these athletes who just won games on the biggest stage enjoy one of their biggest moments. I feel like there’s been a lot of negativity and I think that’s something that needs to change.” “.
Ben Shelton celebrates after defeating Lorenzo Sonego in their quarterfinal match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)
Broadcasters of this year’s Grand Slam came under fire after Australian Channel 9 journalist Tony Jones called Djokovic “overrated” and “old-fashioned” while mocking Serbian fans. Djokvic refused to give an on-court interview after the incident until he received an apology.
On Monday, the network said in a statement that it apologized “for any offense caused by comments made” during the live broadcast.
“No harm was intended to Novak or his fans,” the statement continued. “We look forward to continuing to showcase his campaign at the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.”
