Connect with us

Tennis

Djokovic launches Wimbledon rant and clashes with BBC host over ‘disrespect’

Published

on

Djokovic launches Wimbledon rant and clashes with BBC host over ‘disrespect’

Novak Djokovic was left furious after beating Holger Rune in straight sets to reach the quarter-finals of this year’s Wimbledon championships, unleashing an angry rant at the crowd

Novak Djokovic has been left furious at the Wimbledon crowd

Novak Djokovic has unleashed a furious rant at the ‘disrespectful’ Wimbledon crowd after beating Holger Rune to reach the quarter-finals of this year’s championship.

Djokovic was left angry with how the crowd treated him during Monday’s last-16 clash on Centre Court. The Danish fans in attendance could be heard vocally supporting Rune, which Master of Ceremonies Rishi Pershad suggested would be the case – but that claim was awkwardly slapped down by the Serbian star.




“I’m very pleased. I don’t think he has played anywhere close to his best to be honest. It was a tough start for him. He lost the first 12 points and I think that got to him mentally,” he said on court afterwards.

“Waiting all day to come out on the court is never easy. The tension is building up and stressed to get out on the court. On my end I think I‘ve done things at the important moments. Things could have looked different if I lost those services games but very solid at the end and I’m very happy to get through in straight sets.

“To all the fans that have had respect and stayed here tonight, I think you from the bottom of my heart and I appreciate it. And to all those people that have chosen to disrespect the player (in this case me) have a goooooooood night.”

Persad then stepped in to say: “I am hoping they were just commenting on Rune, and they were not disrespecting you.”

But Djokovic hit back and bluntly said: “They were. They were. I am not accepting it. No no no. I know they were cheering for Rune but that’s an excuse to also boo.

“Listen, I have been on the tour for more than 20 years. I know all the tricks. I focus on the respectful people that pay for the ticket, and love tennis and appreciate the players. I played in much more hostile environments, trust me – you guys can’t touch me.

Continue Reading