Chris Evert supports Ben Shelton's comments on Australian Open post-match interviews - "On-court interviewers try to be funny"
ATP
American tennis star Ben Shelton has received some backlash for his comments regarding post-match interviews at the 2025 Australian Open, but WTA great Chris Evert was quick to come to his defense.
The former World No.13 defeated Italian Lorenzo Sonego in the quarterfinals at Melbourne to reach his first semifinal at the Happy Slam. However, Shelton will face his most difficult task when he takes on World No.1 and defending champion Jannik Sinner for a spot in the final.
Shelton voices opinion on post-match interviews, Evert lends her support
The Atlanta native took some time at the end of his press conference to criticize some of the on-court interviews that have been conducted during the 2025 Australian Open. This had been building up since after Shelton defeated Gael Monfils, when he was told the Frenchman is “old enough to be his dad”. Additionally, it was implied during another post-match interview that he would not have many fans on his side if he were to play either Alex de Minaur or Jannik Sinner in the semifinals.
“I’ve been a little bit shocked this week with how players have been treated by the broadcasters,” said Shelton in his post-match conference after defeating Sonego. “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."
Shelton's comments generated a lot of buzz in the tennis community, with former WTA World No.1 Chris Evert chiming in on the matter in support of the young American.
“I agree with Ben. Sometimes, on court interviewers try to be funny or make it about themselves,” wrote Evert on Twitter. “In saying that, @RealJimCourier is excellent in that role.”
World No.29 Jiri Lehecka also seemed to agree with Shelton's stance, taking to social media to compliment the 22-year old.
“Well said @BenShelton,” wrote the Czech star on Twitter.
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