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Ben Shelton has rejected the idea of being mic-ed while playing doubles at the Citi Open. This follows tournament director Mark Ein's recent announcement that players will be mic-ed during matches this week, with their audio going live to TV audiences.
The 21-year-old is participating in the tournament for the second time in his career. On Monday, Shelton partnered with Croatia's Ivan Dodig for the tournament but was defeated in the first round by Henry Patten and Harri Heliövaara, 6-3, 7-5.
Following the match, the American was asked by the press about the innovation. With a laugh, he rejected the idea of being mic-ed himself; however, he said that it was a good idea and would be cool and entertaining for the audience.
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“I’m not getting mic-ed up, man!" he replied. “I think it’s really cool for a consumer. I think it’s a good idea. The guys who consent to it, I think there will be some funny stuff that comes out from that happening.”
Shelton also spoke further about being careful and his love for his career. He explained that he doesn't say crazy things on the court but doesn't rule out the possibility that anything can happen.
“For me, I like my career! I’m not saying that I say crazy stuff on the court. I can be a wild card at times. I don’t say things out loud, but when the mic is right there, anything can happen. I’m going to keep those thoughts and under-the-breath sayings to myself. I hope everyone who does it enjoys it and doesn’t say anything too bad,” Shelton said.
At the 2023 edition, Shelton faced an early exit when he was knocked out by Shang Juncheng in the second round. In the doubles category, he partnered with his compatriot Mackenzie McDonald, but the duo was defeated by Máximo González and Andrés Molteni in the final.
Ben Shelton will face the winner between Facundo Díaz Acosta and Radu Albot in the second round
As the second seed at the 2024 Citi Open, Ben Shelton received a bye in the first round. The American will play against the winner of the match between Facundo Díaz Acosta and Radu Albot on Wednesday in the second round of the men's singles.
Ben Shelton has had an impressive 2024 season so far. He currently has a career-high ranking of No. 14 and recently won the second title of his career at the Houston Open. Shelton also reached the semifinals at the Dallas Open and the ASB Classic in Auckland. At the Wimbledon Championships, he surpassed his best record by reaching the fourth round.
