Wed Jan 22 17:57:15 UTC 2025: ## American Shelton Advances to Australian Open Semifinal Despite Umpire Near Misses
**Melbourne, Australia** – Ben Shelton is through to the Australian Open semifinals after a thrilling four-set victory over Lorenzo Sonego. The American, known for his powerful serve and forehand, emerged victorious 6-4, 7-5, 4-6, 7-6(4) in a match punctuated by some unusual incidents involving the chair umpire, Tom Sweeney.
Shelton’s aggressive playing style nearly resulted in unintended consequences. Twice, his forehands narrowly missed Sweeney, once striking his chair and later, in a slower, less forceful shot, almost hitting the umpire directly. Sweeney, however, took both incidents in good humor, even managing to catch the errant second shot. The light-hearted moments between player and umpire lightened the tense atmosphere.
Earlier in the match, a minor disagreement arose regarding the serve clock, and a disputed double bounce call was overturned by video replay, showcasing the cordial relationship between Shelton and Sweeney despite the near misses.
Shelton’s powerful game ultimately proved decisive. He overcame a late surge from Sonego to clinch the fourth set and secure his place in the semifinals. There he will face either Australian favorite Alex de Minaur or world number one Jannik Sinner in a bid for a maiden Grand Slam final appearance.
First Piper 