Shelton Critiques Aussie Open Media

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Post on Jan 23, 2025

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Shelton Critiques Aussie Open Media: A Tennis Pro's Perspective

Hey everyone, so I've been meaning to spill the tea on something that's been bugging me – the media coverage of the Aussie Open. Specifically, how it felt to me. I'm not a top-ranked pro, but I've been grinding it out on the Challenger circuit for years, and I've got some pretty strong opinions about how the Aussie Open, specifically, handles its media. I know, I know, I'm just one small voice in a massive tournament, but hey, sometimes the little guy needs to speak up, right?

This isn't about complaining for the sake of complaining. This is about constructive criticism — something I hope the AO organizers will consider.

The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly of Aussie Open Media

Let's start with the good stuff, because there is good stuff. The Aussie Open has a massive media presence. Seriously, it's huge. The sheer scale of the coverage is something to behold. They get tons of international attention, and that exposure is invaluable for the sport and the players. I mean, it's the Australian Open! It's a big deal.

However...and this is a big however... the focus often feels skewed. It’s almost entirely focused on the top seeds. The big names get all the attention. It's understandable, to a point, they sell tickets, drive viewership. But what about the rest of us? The players fighting tooth and nail in the qualifying rounds, the ones who put in years of grueling training to even get to Melbourne?

I remember one year, I was playing a particularly intense qualifying match. I managed to scrape through, after three incredibly long sets. Absolutely crushed it! My heart was pounding out of my chest. I was drained. But after it all, there was almost no coverage. Zero mentions anywhere. Meanwhile, some minor celebrity sighting in the crowd was getting more press than my incredible comeback victory. Seriously, that's a bit frustrating, you know?

It's not just the qualifying rounds either. Even in the early rounds of the main draw, many matches that show amazing skill and heart are left out. It's like the media only cares about the stars, leaving the rest to wither in the shadows.

Practical Advice for Aspiring Players (and Media Outlets!)

So, what's a player to do? If you're trying to build your own profile as an aspiring tennis pro, you have to be proactive. Social media is key. I'm talking Instagram, X, even TikTok. It's all about creating your own content, building your own narrative. If you have some killer footage of matches, then you are already better positioned to get more coverage. Share highlights, engage with your fans. This isn't about being boastful; it's about controlling your brand and getting your message across.

For media outlets covering tournaments like the Aussie Open, I'd suggest broadening the scope. Showcasing more matches, featuring lesser-known players—it would offer a more comprehensive picture of the sport. Remember, the fans want to see the journey, not just the destination. The effort, not only the big wins.

Remember that one time I lost to a player ranked 300 places below me? Yeah, that happened. These underdogs have compelling stories too, and sharing their stories will improve your audience engagement.

Plus, honestly, it would make the coverage much more interesting.

The Takeaway

The Aussie Open is a fantastic tournament. But focusing almost exclusively on the top players is a missed opportunity. The whole experience would be so much richer with more diverse and inclusive media coverage. I hope the AO organizers consider this. It's a chance to show they care about more than just box office numbers; they care about the players who make the tournament what it is—all of them, not just the superstars. Let's amplify all voices, not just the loudest ones!

What are your thoughts? Let me know in the comments! I'd love to hear what you think.