Novak Djokovic's frustration boiled over during a practice session ahead of the Madrid Open, with the Serbian star caught on camera unleashing an expletive-laden rant.
The 37-year-old was overheard exclaiming: "F*** this sport, f*** tennis, f*** everything" after a series of disappointing shots during Thursday's practice.
The outburst came as Djokovic prepared for the tournament with his coach Andy Murray, the retired tennis legend who joined his team last November.
Tennis fans were amused by the incident, with some suggesting Murray's influence might be showing in Djokovic's behaviour.
Novak Djokovic lost his cool in practice alongside Andy Murray
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Djokovic is currently enduring a disappointing run of form as he heads into the Madrid Open.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion suffered a shock first-round exit in Monte-Carlo earlier this month, beaten by Alejandro Tabilo.
This defeat followed another disappointment in March when he lost to Jakub Mensik in the final of the Miami Open.
The Serbian star appears desperate to bounce back from these setbacks as he continues his preparation in Spain.
His visible frustration during practice reflects the pressure he's feeling to return to winning ways.
Murray, who retired following last year's Paris Olympic Games, has been working with Djokovic since November to help his former rival regain top form.
The pair were spotted training together ahead of the Madrid Open, with Murray's support extending beyond the court.
The British coach is potentially aiding the world number one in managing his emotions during this difficult period.
Djokovic and Murray have been putting in extensive hours both on the court and in the gym as they work to elevate the Serbian's game.
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In a candid interview with Sky Sports, Djokovic outlined his priorities for the coming months.
"The priority is obviously trying to take the level of tennis that currently is maybe not where we want it to be to the higher level so that I can peak at the French Open," he explained.
"That's where I really want to play my best tennis, Roland Garros and Wimbledon.
"I don't have really high expectations and I really hope I can get through the first hurdle and then we'll take it from there."
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Andy Murray rubbing off on Novak Djokovic during his practice session in Madrid:
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) April 24, 2025
"F*** this sport, f*** tennis, f*** everything" 😭😭😭😭
pic.twitter.com/BN9pJJ9Qz4
Djokovic will need to recover quickly from his subpar practice session as he faces Italy's Matteo Arnaldi in his opening match at the Madrid Open on Saturday.
The world number three Carlos Alcaraz remains the favourite to win his home event, but all eyes will be on Djokovic's performance.
Following his arrival in Madrid, Djokovic and Murray have been working intensively to improve his game.
"We're putting in a lot of hours in the court and in the gym, trying to perfect the body and the game," Djokovic said.
