Novak Djokovic reacts to disqualification: between emptiness and sadness
Novak Djokovic was disqualified in the second round of the US Open after the Serb hit a line judge with a shot ball. After the canceled press conference, the world number one has now apologized for the events via social media.
by Michael Rothschädl
last edit: Sep 07, 2020, 07:05 am
When Novak Djokovic hurried towards the gang with wide eyes at the end of the first sentence, the world number one probably already knew what would happen to him in the next few moments. A blackout - one could say - a moment in which emotions had taken over the body and mind, should destroy the dream of the big title contender, Novak Djokovic was disqualified at the US Open at around 10:15 p.m. European time.
But from the beginning. Round one of Novak Djokovic's round of 16 duel with Pablo Carreno Busta seemed to have been decided a good fifteen minutes earlier. As so often in his career, the Serb should be fully there at exactly the right moment, with a score of 5: 4 and serve Carreno Busta, the industry leader secured three breakballs - but had to give them all. Also and especially because Pablo Carreno Busta now showed his best tennis - and found the line with a forehand by millimeters.
Linesman hit in the neck
The Spaniard was finally able to keep his serve and it was now his turn to take it from his opponent. The former top 10 player secured the break at 15 - and would have had the chance to serve on set one. Just as the TV camera swung from Novak Djokovic to Pablo Carreno Busta, there was an outcry in Arthur Ashe Stadium - and Djokovic, eyes wide with horror, who hurried towards the gang.
The Serb had previously thundered a ball in the direction of the gang out of frustration, but now such an action should have far more far-reaching consequences. Without looking, the world number one shot the ball remaining in his hand in the direction of the gang - and hit a linesman in the neck. The lady should go to the ground immediately, some claim to have heard her gasping for breath.
"I asked about the linesman and the tournament told me that, thank God, she is fine. I am very sorry that I caused her such pain. So unintentional. So wrong," wrote the number one of the ATP -Charts hours later on social networks. The Serb skipped the obligatory press conference and left the Flushing Meadows site without a greeting.
Tennis world in shock
"As for the disqualification, I have to come back and work on my disappointment and make all of this a lesson for my growth and development as a player and person. I apologize to the US Open tournament and everyone involved for my behavior ", explained Djokovic further. The whole situation, said Djokovic, left him extremely empty and sad.
Not only is this a black day for the Serb, the big favorite at this year's US Open, it is also a black day for tennis. Legend and TV expert Boris Becker was close to tears in an initial analysis, while Billie Jean King reported on Twitter: "It's very unhappy for everyone involved, but in this specific situation it was the right decision."