Recently, Ben Shelton, America’s rising tennis star, spoke out against the manner in which the media treated players at the Australian Open 2025, calling for a more respectful treatment bestowed on players conducted interviews.
Shelton’s criticism of the media’s treatment of athletes has somewhat overshadowed his amazing advance to the semifinals-the first time in his career. His remarks have created an important discussion regarding the role of broadcasters in tennis.
The Incident: Disrespectful Media Practices
Shelton’s Discontent with On-Court Interviews
He was subjected to a series of questions that he found problematic following his quarterfinal success against Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego. When asked during the course of the questioning whether the crowd would support him or the tragedy of his next match, Shelton relied on humor. He replied, “They can boo me, throw stuff at my head.”
However, after that, Shelton did not mince words in addressing the issue at a later press briefing where she branded the questions as highly unprofessional while calling to redress how players are treated by journalists.
Wider Issues in Tennis Broadcasting
Instances of Mockery and Inappropriate Humor
Other instances of disrespect to players were also pointed out by Shelton. He referred to American qualifier Learner Tien, who Shelton said faced an “embarrassing” interview after defeating Daniil Medvedev.
Shelton demanded, “The way organizations view the sport must change and it should start from broadcasters.”
The Djokovic Apology
Previously in the tournament, a broadcaster from Channel 9, Tony Jones, had to make a public apology for mocking Novak Djokovic and heckling the fans. According to Shelton, this is just a part of a much larger unprofessional trend for tennis media.
Upcoming Semifinal: Shelton vs. Sinner
Amidst all the media controversy, Shelton is now concentrating on the semifinal against Jannik Sinner, the current world No. 1 and defending champion. In Sinner, Shelton sees a golden opportunity for himself to advance into his first Grand Slam final.
Advocating for Change: A Call for Respect
Shelton’s Appeal to Broadcasters
Shelton’s remarks underscore the necessity for a shift in how broadcasters engage with players:
- Respectful Engagement: Interviews should highlight players’ successes rather than diminish them.
- Positive Promotion: The focus should be on promoting tennis and supporting athletes’ development.
- Equitable Treatment: All players, regardless of their status, deserve to be treated with respect.
Stirring a Broader Dialogue
Shelton’s comments, which talk about those matters, along with the inevitable discourse that arises about the media’s control of the image of the sport within the world of tennis, have reverberated across the tennis community.
Public Support: Fans Rally Behind Shelton
Social media have become rife with support for Shelton, whom his supporters praise for his courage to speak. Many are hoping for a very positive change in the treatment of tennis players with his back!
Looking Ahead: Shelton’s Future
Shelton will be expected to deliver performances worthy of the applause he has been getting, while also putting into action his cause of bringing a more respectful handling of players by the media.Shelton will be expected to deliver performances worthy of the applause he has been getting, while also putting into action his cause of bringing a more respectful handling of players by the media.
“I am going to compete and grow the sport,” said Shelton.