Ben Shelton Criticises Australian Open On-Court Interviews
Ben Shelton, the 22-year-old American tennis star, has made headlines at the 2025 Australian Open not only for his on-court performances but also for his candid criticism of the tournament’s on-court interviews. After securing a spot in the semi-finals by defeating Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego, Shelton took the opportunity to voice his concerns about the treatment of players by broadcasters and interviewers.
Shelton expressed his frustration with what he described as “disrespectful” and “embarrassing” questions posed to players during post-match interviews. He highlighted several instances, including a comment suggesting that his opponent Gael Monfils could be his father due to their age difference, and another implying that no one would cheer for him in his next match. Shelton also referenced an awkward interview with young American player Learner Tien, who was told he was “too good for a 19-year-old” after his victory over Daniil Medvedev.
The American’s comments resonated with tennis legends and fans alike. Chris Evert, an 18-time Grand Slam champion, agreed with Shelton, stating that on-court interviewers sometimes try to be funny or make the interviews about themselves, though she praised Jim Courier for his professionalism. Boris Becker also weighed in, calling the interviews “too long and too personal.” Czech player Jiri Lehecka echoed the sentiment, commending Shelton for speaking out.
Shelton’s criticism comes in the wake of Novak Djokovic’s decision to skip an on-court interview after his fourth-round win, following offensive comments made by Channel 9’s Tony Jones about Djokovic and his fans. Jones later apologised, but the incident highlighted a broader issue of respect and professionalism in player-media interactions.
Despite the controversy, Shelton remains focused on his game. He is set to face world No. 1 and defending champion Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals, aiming to reach his first Australian Open final. Shelton acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting that Sinner is a formidable opponent on hard courts, but he remains determined to make his mark on the tournament.
Shelton’s outspokenness has sparked a wider conversation about the role of broadcasters in tennis, with many calling for a more respectful and supportive approach to on-court interviews. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on how the media responds to this feedback and whether changes will be made to improve the experience for players and fans alike.
Retiring Djokovic booed as Sinner sets up Zverev final at Australian Open - live
Djokovic is out of the Australian Open after retiring from his semi-final, with Zverev through to face Sinner on Sunday
www.independent.co.uk
Jannik Sinner beats Ben Shelton: 2025 Australian Open semi-final result from Rod Laver Arena as Sinner sets Zverev final
Get the latest Tennis updates on Eurosport. Catch Jannik Sinner - Ben Shelton live on 24/01/2025. Find scores, stats and comments in real time.
www.eurosport.com
Australian Open 2025 LIVE: Jannik Sinner vs Ben Shelton - semi-final scores, updates & radio
Follow live text and radio commentary featuring Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic from the Australian Open semi-finals in Melbourne.
www.bbc.com
Australian Open: Ben Shelton finds the shots – and words – to make his mark
The 22-year-old faces one of the toughest tasks in tennis: beating Jannik Sinner on a hard court. But his evolution on and off the court has been impr
www.theguardian.com
Australian Open 2025 LIVE: Jannik Sinner vs Ben Shelton - semi-final scores, updates & radio
Follow live text and radio commentary featuring Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic from the Australian Open semi-finals in Melbourne.
www.bbc.co.uk
Australian Open 2025: Ben Shelton criticises on-court interviews
American Ben Shelton criticises negative and disrespectful on-court interviews with players at the Australian Open.
www.bbc.com
Ben Shelton, Novak Djokovic eye Rankings surge at Australian Open | ATP Tour | Tennis
Ben Shelton entered the Australian Open as the No. 20 player in the PIF ATP Rankings. With two more wins, the American would make a jaw-dropping surge
www.atptour.com
Shelton slams 'disrespectful' Aussie Open media
Ben Shelton, after reaching his first Grand Slam final at the Australian Open, said he has noticed a lot of disrespectful conduct from broadcasters an
www.espn.co.uk
Chris Evert responds to Ben Shelton's comments about Australian Open on-court interviews as Jiri Lehecka also reacts
Shelton supported by a legend!
www.thetennisgazette.com
Ben Shelton sides with Novak Djokovic as he slams 'disrespectful' broadcaster comments
Ben Shelton has joined Novak Djokovic in taking a stand against disrespectful broadcasters.
www.tennis365.com'Grossly insensitive': Australian Open rocked by fresh fury over 'awful' question
It comes after Ben Shelton took aim at interviewers and broadcasters. Read more here.
au.news.yahoo.com
Legends speak out after Ben Shelton’s swipe
The post-match interviews during the 2025 Australian Open have come in for stinging criticism from some greats of the tennis world.
www.news.com.au