After reaching his second Grand Slam semi-final, 22-year-old Ben Shelton used his press conference at the Australian Open to criticize the treatment of players by the tournament's broadcasters. Shelton's comments were sparked by the on-court interviewer's suggestion that fans would boo him in the next round, and he proceeded to highlight recent incidents involving top players and Australian broadcasters. The American tennis player says he is looking forward to facing either defending champion Jannik Sinner or home favorite Alex de Minaur, but is concerned about the potential negativity from the crowd.
22-year-old American tennis player Ben Shelton has sparked controversy after using a post-match press conference at the Australian Open to voice his concerns about the treatment of players by the tournament's broadcasters.
Shelton's comments came after he reached his second Grand Slam semi-final, where he will face either defending champion Jannik Sinner or home favorite Alex de Minaur. Following his quarterfinal victory over Jiří Lehečka, Shelton was asked by an on-court interviewer if he was concerned about the possibility of being booed by the crowd in his next match.
Shelton responded by criticizing the Australian broadcasters for their treatment of players. He highlighted recent incidents involving top players such as Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas, who were subjected to booing and heckling from the crowd.
Shelton expressed his belief that the broadcasters were contributing to the negativity by highlighting and encouraging certain behaviors from the crowd. He argued that the media should play a positive role in promoting sportsmanship and respecting players.
"I think it's really important for the broadcasters to be respectful of the players," Shelton said. "They have a responsibility to create a positive environment and to set a good example for the fans."
The Australian Open organizers have yet to comment publicly on Shelton's criticism. However, it is understood that they are aware of his concerns and are taking the matter seriously.
1. Why is Ben Shelton criticizing the Australian Open broadcasters?
Shelton believes that the broadcasters are contributing to the negativity in the crowd and encouraging disrespectful behavior towards players.
2. What specific incidents prompted Shelton's comments?
Shelton highlighted recent incidents involving Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas, who were both subjected to booing and heckling from the crowd.
3. What is the Australian Open organizers' response to Shelton's criticism?
The Australian Open organizers are taking the matter seriously but have not yet commented publicly.
4. Is Shelton concerned about facing negativity from the crowd in his semi-final?
Shelton has expressed concern about the potential for a negative atmosphere from the crowd in his semi-final match.
5. What do tennis fans think about Shelton's comments?
Tennis fans have mixed reactions to Shelton's comments, with some supporting his stance and others believing that the negativity is part of the sport.
After missing the opportunity in his home city, Australian stand-in skipper Steve Smith finally reaches the coveted 10,000-run mark in Tests during the first match against Sri Lanka in Galle. In addition to this milestone, Smith also brings up his 35th Test century, surpassing Indian captain Virat Kohli in the list of batters with the most away centuries in Test cricket. This achievement marks Smith as the fourth Australian and fifth fastest batter by innings to reach the 10,000 run milestone in Tests, with an impressive average of over 55.
Liverpool's transfer activity has been quiet this winter, with only one new player arriving at Anfield. However, the club is now looking to offload midfielder Stefan Bajcetic on loan to Las Palmas. The 20-year-old was set to spend the season with RB Salzburg but was not getting enough playing time. Meanwhile, the Saudi Pro League has expressed interest in signing Liverpool's Mohamed Salah and Darwin Nunez, but the Reds have made it clear that neither player will be leaving during the winter transfer window.
The Indian batting sensation, Virat Kohli, made a triumphant comeback to the Ranji Trophy after a gap of 13 years, much to the joy of cricket enthusiasts. As he took the field with his fellow Delhi teammates, a thunderous crowd of more than 15,000 fans welcomed him with open arms. The persistent queue of excited spectators, stretching for 2km, outside the Arun Jaitley Stadium only added to the already electrifying atmosphere. Kohli's gracious acknowledgment of the love and support from his fans was the icing on the cake for what was an enthralling moment for Indian cricket.
Despite falling behind early in the match, Manchester City managed to secure a crucial win against Club Brugge, sealing their spot in the Champions League play-offs. The Blues struggled in the first half but made a tactical switch in the second to secure the win, with goals from Mateo Kovacic and Savinho leading them to victory. City will now face a tough opponent in either Bayern Munich or Real Madrid, with the playoff round draw happening on Friday. Former City goalkeeper Joe Hart weighs in on the team's performance and potential opponents.
After a seven-year-long wait, fans finally got to see Indian cricketer Virat Kohli in action at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. A frenzied rush ensued outside the stadium as fans tried to get inside, which led to a minor scuffle. However, the situation was soon under control and no injuries were reported. Kohli's appearance in the Ranji Trophy after 13 years was met with immense excitement and his fans turned out in large numbers to watch him play.
Indian cricket team captain and star batsman Virat Kohli will be playing in a Ranji match for the first time in 12 years, setting the stage for an electric atmosphere at Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium. Fans are going crazy for a chance to see their idol in action, with a long line forming outside the stadium since morning. The excitement is reminiscent of an IPL or international match, showing the magnitude of King Kohli's legacy.
After nearly a decade, Virat Kohli has come back to grace the Indian domestic competition - the Ranji Trophy. Fans and cricket enthusiasts hastily flocked their way in different sections of the Arun Jaitley Stadium to witness the opening match between Delhi and Railways. With amazing visuals of crowds, chants for RCB and a heartwarming gesture by Kohli himself, the match seemed to have taken a legendary start.
As the group stage of the Champions League comes to an end, Liverpool secures their spot at the top of the standings with a perfect record. PSV, on the other hand, is still fighting for qualification but must face a much-changed Liverpool lineup. This match is also significant for Liverpool's Cody Gakpo, who will return to his former team for the first time since his transfer. Stay tuned for live coverage and analysis from Philips Stadion.
Manchester City narrowly avoids early elimination from the Champions League with a 3-1 win over Club Brugge, thanks to second-half goals from Mateo Kovacic, Joel Ordonez (own goal), and Savinho. Manager Pep Guardiola admits his team wasn't performing well and is relieved to secure a spot in the knockout stages. Looking ahead, Guardiola feels his team will have a tough time against European giants Bayern Munich or Real Madrid in the next round, but is hopeful for a boost from new signings and injured players returning.
Barcelona secures second place in the Champions League group stage after a 2-2 draw with Atalanta. The Italian team, missing one of their top strikers, missed out on direct qualification for the knockout phase and will now have to face the playoff round. Despite this, Barcelona remained in control throughout the match and will now have extra time to prepare for the next round.