Tenth Major and already a second semi-final for Ben Shelton. The American transcends himself during major events, notably the Grand Slams. Already impressive during his first visit to Melbourne in 2023 (quarter-final), he managed to do better this year. At the end of an intense fight lasting almost four hours, the 20th player in the world overcame Lorenzo Sonego (6-4, 7-5, 4-6, 7-6(4)). But the 22-year-old showman wanted to make a rant at a press conference after his victory.
Video – Ben Shelton after qualifying for the semi-finals on Wednesday
Find the men’s draw for the Australian Open here
Find the women’s draw for the Australian Open here
“There has been a lot of negativity and that needs to change”
“I was a little shocked this week by the way the players were treated by the broadcasters” he confided. “I don’t think the guy who made fun of Novak (Djokovic) is an isolated case. I noticed it with other people, not just me. I noticed it with Learner Tien during “One of his matches when he beat Medvedev, his post-match interview seemed embarrassing and disrespectful to me.”
Ben Shelton also pointed out his own feelings. “There were comments made to me in post-game interviews by different guys, like, ‘Hey, Monfils is old enough to be your dad. Maybe he’s your dad.” Or today on the court, “Hey, Ben, how do you feel about whoever your next opponent is, no one will be cheering for you “That may be true, but I don’t think it’s respectful coming from a man I’ve never met in my life. I think broadcasters should help grow our sport and help these athletes who just won matches on the biggest stage to enjoy one of their greatest moments. I feel like there’s been a lot of negativity. I think that’s something that needs to change.”
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“It was definitely one of my worst days in the service”
On the Tennis level, the joy was still present. “I’m really happy. It was definitely one of my worst days on duty. I had to fight, it took me a while to get used to the conditions, the wind was swirling. During my half at the ‘US Open 2023, everything had to be perfect, I was at the limit, I was serving incredibly well and everything had to line up to make it happen Here, everything was not perfect. day in service over five matches. I’m a better returner than before.”
Next step: Jannik Sinner for a place in the final. “He’s the defending champion, we know what he’s done already. I’m looking forward to it. When you play against the best players in the world, it’s a great opportunity to improve your game and see where you are. This will be the case on Friday.”
“Gaël Monfils is the best showman and will remain so forever”
Outstanding defender on the court, Ben Shelton likes to arrange the crowd and offer exceptional points. An aspect that he does not work on, on the contrary. Against Lorenzo Sonegohe got up by doing a push-up after a fall in front of the photographers, which woke up the public. “Becoming the heir to Gaël Monfils as a showman? No, he’s the GOAT (greatest of all time) and he always will be. I see myself differently now. I’m trying to be more focused on the short, to put blinders on myself so as not to look at what is happening outside.”
