American tennis star Ben Shelton blasted the local broadcasters of the Australian Open during an unprovoked attack.
On Wednesday morning, Shelton, 22, sealed his place in the semi-final of the 2025 Australian Open after beating Italian Lorenzo Sonego 6-4, 7-5, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4).
As a result, the 21st seed will face world number one Jannik Sinner in the next round, who knocked out home favourite Alex de Minaur in straight sets.
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After the match, Shelton unleashed on the broadcasters of the tournament as he criticised the treatment towards himself and his fellow players.
The American said: "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.
"I don't think that the guy who mocked Novak [Djokovic], 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.
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"I think when he beat [Daniil] Medvedev his post-match interview, I thought it was kind of embarrassing and disrespectful that interview."
Shelton continued: "There are some comments that have been made to me in post-match interviews by a couple of different guys, 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, may be true, but I just don't think the comment is respectful from a guy I've never met before in my life."
To conclude, Shelton spoke about what the broadcasters should be doing to help grow the sport.
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He said: "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."
Australian Open broadcaster Channel Nine forced to apologise to Novak Djokovic
Local broadcaster Channel Nine has been in hot water this week after reporter Tony Jones was forced to apologise for comments made about 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.
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While presenting on live TV, Jones was heard saying: "Novak, he's overrated. Novak's a has-been. Novak kick him out."
The Serbian ended up boycotting his on-court interview before branding Jones' comments as 'insulting and offensive'.
Djokovic will take on number two seed Alexander Zverev in the semi-final on Friday.
Topics: Australian Open, Tennis
Marcus Chan