Ben Shelton Calls Out Disrespectful Media Behavior at the Australian Open
The Australian Open makes news not only from tennis matches but also from media member behavior issues. The public debate about media coverage of the tournament brings attention to unsuitable behavior towards US players.
During live coverage Australian broadcaster Tony Jones upset Novak Djokovic fans and tennis fans worldwide by bad-mouthing one of tennis history’s top performers. While on-air outdoors Jones joined Djokovic’s supporters in making mock cheers with statements like “Novak is overrated” and “He’s a used up champion.” Djokovic ended his post-match interview routine after defeating Lehecka because Jones’ behavior impressed him as unacceptable.
Despite harsh media treatment in past Australian visits Djokovic joins other prominent athletes who faced disrespectful on-air comments this year. Young American tennis player Ben Shelton shares his disappointment about broadcasters who treat tennis athletes with disrespect.
Shelton mentioned two unacceptable behaviors in his interview where media treated Learner Tien poorly after beating Medvedev and Novak Djokovic. The sports broadcasters surprised Shelton so much during this tournament week. He shared this reaction following his semifinal win. There was nothing unique about how they treated Djokovic. He observed similar behavior in the way broadcasters treated Learner Tien after he defeated Medvedev as during Novak Djokovic’s match.
At 22 he started by discussing past events that lacked respectful treatment. Over radio he described personal experiences whenever broadcasters misconstrued facts during matches. Shelton believed the harsh statement showed poor respect to someone unknown.
He explained that broadcasters need to promote good feelings about sport and its athletes rather than make the news negative. Broadcasters are expected to support sports growth and recognize athletic success especially during special events. According to Shelton viewers have unfortunately witnessed the exact opposite of proper behavior during the week.
The media at the Australian Open faces general criticism from Shelton based on their reported negative American player coverage. The upcoming match with Jannik Sinner can’t shake him despite lacking the fan support according to media.
People react to Shelton’s energy and skills very positively making them support him much more strongly than what the broadcaster expected. Honor or not the media give him, Shelton keeps showing why he’s a star in both tennis and everyday life.
