Ben Shelton's sister booed by Wimbledon crowd as American sticks up for her

Wimbledon star Ben Shelton was forced to defend his sister after she was jeered by the crowd on Court No.1 on Saturday. The American outclassed Marton Fucsovics 6-3, 7-6 (4), 6-2 to book his place in the round, equalling his best run yet at SW19.

The 10th seed was afforded a generous cheer as he began his post-match interview. However, the atmosphere changed when Shelton started referencing the family members who had travelled to support him in London. Sibling Emma, herself a keen tennis player, has been an ever-present in the stands during his run this year.

"It's not just been me here, I have a great team," he said. "My parents are here, my girlfriend's here. Also, my sister's here. She's been here for every match I've played. She's been the lucky charm. But she has work back in the US starting Monday."

He then added the significant line of: "She works for Morgan Stanley. of if anyone has any connections who can get her an extra couple of days off so we can keep this rolling..." That drew pantomime boos from the crowd, with the 22-year-old then pleading: "Ay ay ay! Come on now."

The boos were most likely aimed at the American financial company itself. Morgan Stanley has faced several controversies in recent years, including accusations of improper handling of client data and failure to comply with anti-money laundering regulations.

Like her brother, Emma played for the Florida Gators' tennis teams as a youngster and represented the state at University level. Judging by her Instagram story, though, she won't be flying back to the US in time for work next week.

Seemingly unperturbed by her crowd reception, she posted a video of herself celebrating with the caption: "Update: She got the week off."

Shelton, will now face the unseeded Italian Lorenzo Sonego for a place in the last eight. That clash is scheduled for Monday, with the American having won three of their previous four career meetings.