American tennis star Ben Shelton called the TV interviews Australian Open on Tuesday after his quarterfinal win and said he believes several of the post-match interviews throughout the tournament have crossed a line.
Speaking to the media after his hard-fought win over Lorenzo Sonego, Shelton ended his press conference with an offhand remark about player interviews, which have come under the spotlight this week after Novak Djokovic refused to do an interview after comments made about him and his fan base.
Novak Djokovic reacts after defeating Tomas Machac after 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 kind of shocked this week at how players have been treated by the broadcasters,” said Shelton, 22. “I don’t think the guy who was mocking Novak — I don’t think it was just a one-time event . I’ve noticed that 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 French veteran Gael Monfils. The interviewer, Roger Rasheed, remarked that Monfils “is almost your father.”
Shelton replied, “Was that a black joke?” Both players are black.
Rasheed replied, “I’m not sure.”
Ben Shelton, pictured here, plays a backhand to 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, where the interviewer commented that he probably wouldn’t have many fans in his semifinal match against reigning champion Jannik Sinner.
“I just don’t like that comment [is] respectful from a guy I’ve never met before in my life,” Shelton said.
“I feel like broadcasters should help us grow our sport and help these athletes who just won fights on the biggest stage, enjoy one of their biggest moments. I just 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 quarter-final match at the Australian Open tennis championships in Melbourne, Australia, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)
Broadcasters at this year’s Grand Slam came under fire after Australian Channel 9 journalist Tony Jones called Djokovic “overrated” and “a has-been” while mocking Serbian fans. Djokvic refused an interview in court 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” while they were live on air.
“No harm was intended against Novak or his fans,” the statement continued. “We look forward to further showcasing his Australian Open campaign at Melbourne Park.”
