Watch: Ben Shelton left fuming with play suspended when serving for the match at Wimbledon
American tennis player Ben Shelton expressed frustration when his
Wimbledon
second-round match against Rinky Hijikata was suspended due to darkness despite being just one game away from victory.
The match was halted at 9:30 PM due to the bd light on the outside courts, with Shelton leading 6-2, 7-5, 5-4 on No.2 Court.
The suspension came at a crucial moment when Shelton was preparing to serve for the match. The 22-year-old player immediately confronted the chair umpire about the decision, requiring intervention from another rules official who had to explain the ruling while restraining him.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel.
SUBSCRIBE NOW!
The match was taking place on Court No.2, which lacks both a roof and artificial lighting capabilities. The timing of the suspension particularly sparked controversy as it followed a 30-minute discussion about whether to continue play into the third set.
The ESPN broadcasting team expressed their disbelief at the situation during their live coverage. "Oh my goodness. This is unbelievable," the commentary team stated as the events unfolded.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
One of the Most Successful Investors of All Time, Warren Buffett, Recommends: 5 Books for Turning...
Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List
Click Here
Undo
Fans took to social media to voice their concerns over the decision to move the match a day later. One fan posted on X: "Yo @Wimbledon that's just embarrassing. You spend 30 mins talking about whether or not to keep playing. You ultimately start the third set. And you let them play all the way until 5-4, and right when Ben Shelton is about to serve for the match, that's when you call it. Pathetic."
Another fan expressed their frustration: "Absolutely UNBELIEVABLE they're suspending Ben Shelton / Rinky Hijikata.
For a major not to be able to continue beyond 9:30 is absolutely insane. This is beyond comprehension right now."
A third fan supported Shelton's reaction: "Ben Shelton has every right to be livid. After all this, you suspend the match right before Shelton is about to serve for it?? Absolute ridiculous decision yet again by tournament officials."
As Shelton left the court, he acknowledged the crowd with a fist pump and showed appreciation for their support.
The match is scheduled to resume on Friday, July 4.
What time is the
Wimbledon curfew
? Why is it imposed?
Taylor Fritz's match against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard was suspended due to the curfew at Wimbledon in London. (AP)
While not true in this case, Wimbledon has a curfew time that was imposed during Taylor Fritz's first round match against Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.
The Wimbledon curfew is strictly set for 11 pm local time. This rule was introduced in 2009 when the Centre Court's roof was opened.
In a 2018 statement, Wimbledon explained the purpose of the curfew: "The 11 p.m.
curfew is a Planning Condition designed to balance the needs of local residents with the demands of hosting an international tennis tournament in a residential area. Considerations such as transportation and ensuring spectators can get home safely are also important factors."
While the curfew is usually enforced without exception, there have been instances where it has been broken. In 2012, Andy Murray won his match against Marcos Baghdatis at 11:02 pm. The umpire decided to allow Murray to complete the final game rather than waiting until the next day to finish it.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
24 minutes ago
- Time of India
Novak Djokovic Wimbledon match: When and where to watch the grand slam for free
As the famed lawns of the All England Club host the 2025 edition of Wimbledon, Serbian legend Novak Djokovic gears up for his third-round encounter in the ongoing Grand Slam. The 24-time major winner, regarded as one of the sport's all-time greats, has breezed through the opening rounds and now faces a familiar countryman on Saturday. With history on the line, Djokovic's journey at Wimbledon this year is being followed with intense anticipation, especially as he seeks to tie Roger Federer's record of eight titles at the prestigious tournament. Commanding Start for Djokovic Djokovic began his 2025 Wimbledon campaign in typically dominant fashion. After dropping a set in the opening round against France's Alexandre Muller, the Serbian star found his rhythm and powered through the second round, defeating Daniel Evans with a clinical 6-3, 6-2, 6-0 scoreline. These performances have set the stage for what promises to be a compelling third-round matchup, keeping fans worldwide eager to tune in. When is Novak Djokovic Playing at Wimbledon? Date: Saturday, July 5 Live Events Time: 12:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. local (BST) Court: Centre Court, Wimbledon Djokovic's third-round match is the final men's singles tie scheduled on Centre Court for the day. However, the exact timing may vary depending on the length of earlier matches. Who is Djokovic Facing Next? Djokovic will meet fellow Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic, ranked 49th in the ATP world rankings. Kecmanovic advanced to Round 3 by overcoming Jesper De Jong in four sets, and while he's a skilled and capable opponent, he has never moved beyond the third round at Wimbledon. Kecmanovic, 25, reached his career-best ATP ranking of 27 in early 2023 and holds two ATP singles titles. His best Grand Slam performance came at the Australian Open, where he reached the fourth round in both 2022 and 2024. This all-Serbian face-off brings both national pride and competitive tension to Centre Court, with Djokovic holding the clear edge in terms of experience and Grand Slam pedigree. How to Watch Wimbledon 2025 Live Tournament Dates: June 30 to July 13 Telecast Platforms: Television: ESPN, ESPN2, ABC, and Tennis Channel Streaming: ESPN+ and Fubo (includes free trial) Tennis fans across the globe can catch Djokovic and other top contenders through multiple platforms. Traditional viewers can rely on ESPN and its network partners, while streaming options such as ESPN+ and FuboTV offer live coverage and match replays. Cord-cutters in particular are finding ESPN+ a convenient option to follow the Grand Slam action in real time. Wimbledon 2025: Djokovic's Journey So Far Here is a quick look at Novak Djokovic's match results at Wimbledon 2025 so far: Round 1: Defeated Alexandre Muller – 6-1, 6-7 (7-9), 6-2, 6-2 Round 2: Defeated Daniel Evans – 6-3, 6-2, 6-0 His dominant second-round display was a reminder of Djokovic's mastery on grass, a surface where his strategic precision and adaptability often prove too much for his rivals. Wimbledon Glory Within Reach Novak Djokovic's association with Wimbledon has been one of legacy and excellence. He has made it to the final of the tournament for six consecutive years, though in 2023 and 2024, he fell short in the championship match against Spain's Carlos Alcaraz. A win this year would not only mark a personal resurgence but would also match Federer's iconic eight-title record at the tournament. Despite being seeded sixth this year, Djokovic remains one of the bookmakers' top picks, with analysts citing his track record, physical conditioning, and hunger for records as decisive factors. FAQs When is Novak Djokovic playing his next match at Wimbledon 2025? Djokovic's third-round match is scheduled for Saturday, July 5, 2025, at approximately 12:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. BST on Centre Court. The exact time may shift depending on the duration of earlier matches. Who is Djokovic facing in the third round? He will face Miomir Kecmanovic, a fellow Serbian ranked No. 49 in the ATP world rankings. This will be an all-Serbian matchup on Centre Court.
Time of India
39 minutes ago
- Time of India
Marc-André Fleury receives five offers to un-retire as the NHL goalie market thins dramatically
NHL-Marc-Andre Fleury (Credit: Getty Images) Marc-André Fleury had only just closed the chapter on a storied NHL career when teams started knocking on the door again. According to his longtime agent Allan Walsh, five teams reached out on July 1 asking whether Fleury would reconsider his retirement and return to the crease for the 2025–26 season. While the veteran goalie made it clear he was stepping away for good, the recent flurry of interest has reignited discussion about the league's increasingly shallow goaltending pool. Walsh's comments brought urgency to an issue that had already been discussed behind the scenes. Agent Allan Walsh highlights NHL goalie shortage Speaking on his podcast, NHL agent Allan Walsh emphasized the limited market for reliable goaltenders heading into the new season. He pointed to the fact that clubs were seriously inquiring about Fleury's availability despite his retirement. Walsh also touched on the uncomfortable rumors surrounding other goaltending targets. In particular, the speculation is that the Edmonton Oilers might explore signing Carter Hart if he is cleared in the 2018 World Junior case. Hart was one of five players charged with sexual assault in an alleged incident from that year, and though the trial is ongoing, the mere mention of him in a free agency context shows how dire the need for goalies has become. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo This highlights the difficulty that NHL teams face in finding experienced and dependable goaltenders. Several franchises have yet to solidify their crease situations, and a lack of stability in goal could prove costly as the 2025–26 season approaches. Marc-André Fleury shows no interest in returning Despite the calls, Marc-André Fleury is not expected to change his mind. Walsh was clear in stating that his client remains committed to retirement. The longtime Montreal native has little left to prove, and after over two decades in the NHL, Fleury appears content with his decision. For now, fans and teams alike will have to accept that Flower has likely played his final NHL game. But his name still carries weight, and that alone reveals the uncomfortable reality of the current goaltending landscape. Also Read: What Connor McDavid's mindset looks like now, according to insiders' view on Oilers contract extension drama For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Time of India
39 minutes ago
- Time of India
Patrick Mahomes continues to be questioned over a single Super Bowl loss despite being an established NFL quarterback
Patrick Mahomes (via Getty images) With unprecedented postseason success, there are still those who question Patrick Mahomes ' place atop the list of NFL quarterbacks. With three Super Bowl rings, three Super Bowl MVPs, and two regular-season MVP awards—all this before the age of 30. But somehow, one Super Bowl loss in 2024, and the argument about Patrick Mahomes' supremacy has flared up again, with some wondering if he is still worthy of being considered the best quarterback in the league. Paul Pierce ranks Patrick Mahomes below Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson , sparking fresh controversy NBA legend Paul Pierce stirred up trouble this week by putting Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson ahead of Patrick Mahomes in an analysis of quarterback play strictly based on 2024 season data. "I know Mahomes got him to a Super Bowl. But we know that this Kansas City Chiefs team was built around their defense... they don't get the credit for carrying them... through the regular season, but to the Super Bowl," Paul Pierce said. Patrick Mahomes ranked second-best QB behind Josh Allen, is he losing his grip? | NFL | THE FACILITY Paul Pierce doubled down by expressing that he wouldn't even rank Patrick Mahomes No. 2 on his list, but rather would have Allen first and Jackson second—a scalding hot take that received instant backlash from football fans and experts alike. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Paras Sector 59 Gurgaon | Luxury Awaits at Paras Floret Paras The Florett Book Now Undo Despite a so-called "down year" numerically, Patrick Mahomes still did what Allen and Jackson haven't done yet: took his team to the Super Bowl. Mahomes' detractors frequently reference recent regular-season statistics, but the NFL 's elite are judged by what they accomplish in the postseason—and that's where Mahomes is alone: • 4 Super Bowl appearances in 7 seasons • 3 Super Bowl championships • 11–3 playoff record as a starter Compare that to Josh Allen, who holds an NFL record for most playoff starts (13) without reaching a Super Bowl, and Lamar Jackson, whose postseason track record has been far less consistent. If there was ever a question about Mahomes' mindset, he put it to rest this week by taking a pass on celebrating Independence Day to concentrate on practice. Also read: 'Until we got married': Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes opens up about how Brittany supported him The case for Allen and Jackson stands—both are incredible players with explosive skill sets. But NFL greatness doesn't materialize on fantasy numbers or the hype of the media—it's constructed on championships. And that's where Mahomes still excels. Regardless of how many naysayers pour cold water on his legacy, Mahomes' career work says it all. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
