"Can't do anything to me": Djokovic argues with fans
Novak Djokovic outperforms Holger Rune in the Wimbledon Quarterfinals with a score of 6:3, 6:4, 6:2. In his best moments, the Serbian maestro delivers a masterclass on Center Court late on Monday evening. However, after the match where Djokovic, fresh from a meniscus operation and with a knee bandage, impressively showcases his form, there is frustration. The world number two is mightily annoyed. With part of the audience.
"Believe me," said Djokovic, who had fixated the Rune fans with sharp glances during the match, "I have played in much more hostile environments, believe me - you can't get to me." The 37-year-old felt provoked by various spectators throughout the encounter who supported his opponent.
The hint that a long "Ruuuune" sounds like booing was not accepted by Djokovic: "I won't accept that. No! I know they cheered for Rune, but that's an excuse to boo. I have been on tour for more than 20 years. I know all the tricks." The remaining spectators in the stands acknowledged the announcement of the seven-time Wimbledon champion with a mix of boos and approval.
Djokovic's relationship with the crowds around the world is complex: The greatest tennis player in history enjoys immense respect for his sporting achievements everywhere, yet the affection is not always reciprocated, unlike his great rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. Time and again, Djokovic clashes with the spectators.
"We all know that it was my name"
It's not always smooth sailing for the 24-time Grand Slam champion at Wimbledon: After Djokovic defeated Roger Federer in the final in 2019, his former coach Boris Becker stated that he deserved more respect from a partisan crowd that had mostly been on Federer's side. Two years ago, Djokovic was booed after throwing a kiss to the fans following his semifinal victory against British player Cameron Norrie.
At the post-match press conference long after the end of the game, Djokovic's frustration was still a topic: "When I feel that a crowd is crossing the line, I react," he said. "I regret neither my words nor my actions on the court," he said. On the court, Djokovic had bid farewell with a subtle gesture - and incorporated the raised vowel sound, which he interpreted as boos, into his final words: "To all those who had decided not to respect a player, in this case me: Have a great night."
Rune himself took the situation in stride: "If you don't know what happened, it probably sounded like a 'Buh'. But we all know that it was my name," said the 21-year-old. "I don't think it played a big role in the match." In truth: Djokovic remained completely unfazed during the match, kept himself composed - and denied Rune any chance. In the next round, Djokovic faces the ninth-seeded Australian Alex de Minaur.
Despite his impressive performance at Wimbledon, Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic continues to face audience criticism, as he did during his Quarterfinals victory against Holger Rune. Despite the mixed reception, Djokovic remains unfazed, having played in more challenging environments throughout his 20-year tennis career. In the Grand Slam tournaments, including Wimbledon, Djokovic has won a total of seven titles, establishing himself as one of the greatest tennis players of all time.
