Ben Shelton advanced to his second Grand Slam semifinal by defeating Italian player Lorenzo Sonego in their quarterfinal match at the Australian Open. The contest concluded with Shelton winning in four sets, with scores of 6-4, 7-5, 4-6, and 7-6, showcasing an exhilarating display between two innovative power hitters.

Shelton recognized for his vibrant demeanour and confidence on the court, utilized his formidable serve and forehand to secure victory on Rod Laver Arena. However, his forehand nearly led to complications, as a series of mishaps resulted in the American left-hander inadvertently striking chair umpire Tom Sweeney twice in quick succession.

While returning Sonego's serve in the second set, Ben Shelton attempted a powerful forehand down the line, but the shot veered off course and hit the umpire's chair. Shelton promptly expressed his apologies and ensured that Australian umpire Sweeney was unharmed, to which the umpire responded positively.

Shelton's situation deteriorated further when, during Sonego's subsequent service game, he mishit a forehand return, albeit following a fault serve. Although this shot lacked speed, it was directed straight towards the umpire, prompting Sweeney to demonstrate his quick reflexes to the audience by making a catch.

The umpire found humour in the incident, raising two fingers and smiling at Shelton. The young American responded in kind, sharing a moment of levity with Sweeney after the occurrence.

“This is becoming personal now,” remarked the commentator during the broadcast after Sweeney was again caught off guard by Shelton's forehand. Earlier in the match, Sweeney had been part of a somewhat contentious exchange, as Shelton expressed his frustration regarding the time allotted between serves, requesting the umpire to refrain from hurrying him with the serve clock in the first set.

Later, Sweeney made an erroneous call regarding a double bounce at a critical juncture in the set. Nevertheless, video replay provided sufficient evidence for the Australian umpire to reverse his decision. Overall, the match maintained a largely amicable atmosphere between the umpire and the players.

Shelton comes through the test unfazed

Shelton ultimately triumphed in the fourth set, overcoming Sonego, who appeared to be gaining momentum. The two players delivered an impressive display of tennis for the audience at Rod Laver Arena, with Shelton securing the set and the match by a score of 7-4.

The American's next challenge will be against either local favourite Alex de Minaur or world number one Jannik Sinner in the semifinal, as he aims to sustain his remarkable ascent towards a potential first Grand Slam final in Melbourne.

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