Earlier this week, 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic refused to do his usual on-court interview after his fourth-round win against Jiri Lehecka following what he described as “insulting and offensive” comments by Channel Nine’s Tony Jones.
Jones shouted “Novak, he’s over-rated, Novak’s a has-been, Novak kick him out” towards Djokovic fans while live on air at the Australian Open on Friday.
The Australian broadcaster has since apologised for his remarks but Shelton says that incident was not a one-off.
“I’ve been a little bit shocked this week with how players have been treated by the broadcasters,” he said.
“I don’t think that [Djokovic being mocked] was just a single event. I’ve noticed it with different people, not just myself.”
Shelton also referred to an “embarrassing and disrespectful” on-court interview with 19-year-old American Learner Tien after his shock second-round victory against fifth seed Daniil Medvedev.
The on-court interviewer told Tien “19-year-olds aren’t meant to be that good” before asking him if he had heard of his third-round opponent Corentin Moutet.
“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,” added Shelton.
“I feel like there’s just been a lot of negativity. I think that’s something that needs to change.”
BBC Sport has contacted Tennis Australia, which organises the Australian Open, for comment.
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