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“What A Strange Decision” – Fans Question Ben Shelton Omission As Learner Tien Replaces Jannik Sinner At Six Kings Slam

Controversy has erupted over the organizers’ decision to replace Jannik Sinner at the upcoming Kings Slam exhibition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with Learner Tien instead of American rising star Ben Shelton. The three-day knockout tournament, set for October 21, 22, and 24 at The Venue, will feature Tien competing alongside top-ranked players like Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev, Taylor Fritz, and Alex de Minaur.

Fans have criticized the choice, arguing that Shelton—who has reached a career-high ranking of No. 12—would have been a more logical selection, especially given the absence of other high-profile alternatives like Flavio Cobolli or Saudi player Ammar, the country’s top-ranked player.

Meanwhile, Sinner’s withdrawal from the event marks the end of his 2026 season after a knee injury forced his early exit, including skipping the US Open and ATP Finals in Turin, where he had won the past two titles. The Italian star confirmed he will focus on recovery, citing the need for long-term treatment to return to full fitness after a challenging year that included his Wimbledon victory over Zverev in July.

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