Ben Shelton has blasted broadcasters for their treatment of players at this year’s Australian Open.
In an unprompted moment during his press conference after defeating Lorenzo Sonego in the quarter-finals, the American declared he was “shocked” by some behaviour and comments, particularly in on-court interviews.
Shelton noted the infamous comments made by Channel 9 journalist Tony Jones towards Novak Djokovic, as well as a highly-criticised interview by John Alexander following Learner Tien’s upset win over Daniil Medvedev.
MORE: Australian Open men’s singles seedings and eliminations
“One thing that I just want to say before we’re done – I’ve been a little bit shocked this week with how players have been treated by the broadcasters,” Shelton said.
“I don’t think that the guy who mocked Novak … I don’t think that was just a single event. I’ve noticed it with different people, not just myself.
“I noticed it with Learner Tien in one of his matches … when he beat Medvedev, his post-match interview, I thought it was kind of embarrassing and disrespectful that interview.”
Shelton also reflected on his own on-court interviews.
After his fourth-round victory over Gael Monfils, the 22-year-old was interviewed by former tennis coach Roger Rasheed, who attempted to make a joke by saying: “He [Monfils] is almost your Dad”.
“Was that a black joke?” Shelton responded.
“I’m not sure,” Rasheed replied.
Shelton didn’t feel this was respectful.
“There are some comments that have been made to me in post-match interviews by a couple of different guys,” he said.
“Whether it was: ‘Hey, Monfils is old enough to be your dad. Maybe he is your dad.’
“Or today on the court: ‘Hey, Ben, how does it feel that no matter who you play in your next match, no one is going to be cheering for you?’
“I mean, [that] may be true, but I just don’t think the comment is respectful from a guy I’ve never met before in my life.
“I feel like broadcasters should be helping us grow our sport and help these athletes who just won matches on the biggest stage enjoy one of their biggest moments.
“I feel like there’s just been a lot of negativity. I think that’s something that needs to change.”
Shelton will play world No. 1 Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals on Friday.
