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Ben Shelton criticized for celebration at Canadian Open while defending title

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 11, 2026, 8:04 AM

Last updated Aug 11, 2026

Ben Shelton criticized for celebration at Canadian Open while defending title

Summary

Ben Shelton is at the center of a controversy following his celebration at the Canadian Open. The American has advanced to the quarterfinals without dropping a set, defeating opponents Jenson Brooksby, Zizou Bergs, and João Fonseca. His 'finger to the ear' celebration drew criticism from journalist Tom Tebbutt, who argued it is inappropriate to demand louder applause. Many in the tennis community defended Shelton, citing that players like Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz also use similar gestures. Shelton is set to face Jakub Menšík in the quarterfinals, having a 2-1 losing record in previous matches against him.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Ben Shelton progresses to the quarterfinals of the Canadian Open.
•Shelton has not dropped a set during the tournament.
•His celebration drew criticism from journalist Tom Tebbutt.
•Many fans and journalists defended Shelton, citing similar behaviors from Djokovic and Alcaraz.
•Shelton will face Jakub Menšík in the quarterfinals.

Latest Updates

8:04 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Alcaraz and Djokovic Do This Too’ – Tennis World Defends Ben Shelton Amid Backlash Over Montréal ‘Demand’

What they're saying

"
Ben Shelton has found himself at the center of a debate in the tennis community after his animated celebration at the Canadian Open stirred sharp criticism. The American is delivering a strong title defense at the ATP Masters 1000 event in Montréal, having booked a spot in the quarterfinals.
— Yahoo Sports

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