The 2024 season has seen it all. From controversial outbursts to players performing hilarious antics on the court, it has been an exciting season to watch for the fans. Earlier today, another bizarre incident occurred during the quarterfinal match between Ben Shelton and Andrey Rublev at the Swiss Indoors in Basel. Even Roger Federer’s parents, Lynette and Robert, were left shell-shocked at what they were seeing.

Ahead of the first set, a gust of fog engulfed the Center Court in Basel, where Shelton was playing. The visibility was so low that the chair umpire was forced to suspend the play. However, Shelton, instead of proceeding to the chair, took a towel in his hands and began blowing away the mist with it. This led to a hilarious outburst in the stadium and even Rublev shared a smile after watching Shelton’s antics.

The incident occurred after Shelton and Rublev’s match was just about to start after the two had warmed up. However, the fog caused a brief interruption as Federer’s parents watched on, awaiting the start of the contest. The commentators on air said, “We’ve just delayed a little bit here for the start, look at the haze around. It’s very traumatic Robbie, that’s come from the smoke as the players walk out on court.”

While Roger Federer is nowhere to be seen at the tournament, his family has been present consistently at the tournament this year. Yesterday, when Shelton defeated Wawrinka, Federer’s mother and sister watched that contest.

Meanwhile, this isn’t the only bizarre incident involving Shelton at the tournament. During his first-round match, a fan proposed to Shelton, shouting, “Ben, will you marry me?” from the stands. Subsequently, the American sensation gave a blushing look and covered his face with his hands.

With each passing day, Shelton is taking his game to the next level. After his match against Wawrinka, he revealed how he overcame his weakness to defeat the Swiss legend.

Ben Shelton impressed with his play during big points

While Shelton’s serve needs no description, his defense has often come under the scanner during his defeats. However, on this occasion, he played amazingly well on return points and also defended break points well. Specifically speaking, he saved all the 5 break points he faced during his match against Wawrinka.

Talking about this, he said, “I was happy with the way I defended my break points. Being clutch in the big moments is what won me the match today. We were joking in the locker room before the match that he [Wawrinka] has been on the Tour as long as I have lived. He has a lot of experience out here, he’s done a lot of incredible things for our sport, especially here in Switzerland.”

Shelton’s match against Rublev restarted after a brief delay and the American sensation has won the first set. Can he continue his impressive run and upset Rublev? Let us know your views in the comments below.