Then, after Shelton’s 6-4, 7-5, 4-6, 7-6 (4) victory over Lorenzo Sonego in the quarterfinals Wednesday, he was asked about facing either the defending champion, Jannik Sinner, or an Australian player, Alex de Minaur, next, with the interviewer pointing out that the spectators likely would be cheering against Shelton in the semifinals, either way.
Shelton answered: “I know I’ve got a few people out in the crowd who are going to be pulling for me, too.”
At his news conference, Shelton said that what the interviewer said about the fans’ support “may be true, but I just don’t think the comment is respectful from a guy I’ve never met before in my life.”
Shelton closed by saying: “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.”
