
World No.13 Ben Shelton revealed he still thinks about how the media treated himself and other players during the 2025 Australian Open, labelling it "disrespectful".
The 22-year-old made headlines after one of his post-match press conferences at Melbourne earlier this year, as he spoke up about the lack of professionalism in the media.
"I don't think [Tony Jones] who mocked Novak, I don't think that was just a single event. I've noticed it with different people, not just myself," Shelton told the press. "I noticed it with Learner Tien in one of his matches. I think when he beat Medvedev [in] his post-match interview, I thought it was kind of embarrassing and disrespectful that interview."
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He sat down with People Magazine, mentioning that the media is full of "negativity".
"[It's] something I noticed at a few different tournaments with different people, the way that athletes got treated or talked about. I thought that it was disrespectful at times, and that was something that I thought needed to be addressed. … I thought it was really poor in Australia this year," Shelton told People Magazine.
"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."
Shelton will vie for a spot in the round of 16 at Indian Wells when he faces 22nd seed Karen Khachanov.
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To come in 2025: The French Open, Wimbledon, US Open and Laver Cup.

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