Wed Jan 22 21:42:07 UTC 2025: ## US Tennis Star Shelton Condemns “Disrespectful” Australian Open Interviews

**MELBOURNE, Australia (AP)** — American tennis star Ben Shelton has criticized what he perceives as disrespectful and inappropriate questioning by broadcasters during post-match interviews at the Australian Open. Shelton, who reached the semifinals, voiced his concerns at a press conference Wednesday, citing several instances involving himself and other players.

Shelton referenced the controversy surrounding commentator Tony Jones’s insults toward Novak Djokovic, which led to the Serbian champion initially refusing to speak with Channel 9. He insisted this was not an isolated incident, highlighting the interview with 19-year-old American Learner Tien after his upset victory over Daniil Medvedev. Shelton called the interview, which included statements like “19-year-olds are not meant to be that good” and “I know where you live, by the way,” “embarrassing and disrespectful.”

Shelton also pointed to his own experiences. Following his win against Gael Monfils, interviewer Roger Rasheed made a joke about Shelton being “almost [Monfils’] dad,” a comment Shelton questioned, noting both players are Black. In another interview after his quarterfinal win, Shelton was told that the crowd would likely be against him in the semifinals, a comment he considered disrespectful.

Shelton called for a change in the tone and approach of post-match interviews, stating, “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.” His comments have sparked a debate about the role of broadcasters in showcasing athletes and promoting the sport.

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