Novak Djokovic booed by rowdy crowd after controversially refusing Australian Open interview
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Novak Djokovic sparked controversy at the Australian Open on Sunday after refusing to participate in the customary on-court interview following his fourth-round victory over Jiri Lehecka.
The tennis star's decision to shun the traditional post-match interaction with legendary broadcaster Jim Courier left fans and pundits puzzled at Rod Laver Arena.
The Melbourne crowd responded with boos after Djokovic declined to speak with Courier, who appeared taken aback by the Serb's unexpected snub.
The straight-sets victory over 24th seed Lehecka was overshadowed by Djokovic's apparent frustration with hecklers in the crowd.
Novak Djokovic refused the on-court interview
REUTERS
Djokovic took the microphone from Courier and delivered a brief message to those in attendance.
"Thank you very much for being here tonight. I appreciate your presence and the support. See you next round," he said before swiftly departing.
Despite his visible frustration, Djokovic paused to sign autographs for fans with Serbian flags, including match balls and t-shirts.
On-air commentators suggested Djokovic's displeasure stemmed from spectators who had been talking and making comments during the third set of the match.
Former Indian tennis player Sania Mirza expressed bewilderment at Djokovic's reaction to the crowd.
Novak Djokovic walked off the court
REUTERS
"How can you single out a few fans out of a 20,000-strong crowd? I find it baffling," Mirza told Sony Sports.
She noted that such incidents typically fuel Djokovic's performance, adding: "By the end of it, I don't think he wanted to be on the court any more."
Mirza emphasised Djokovic's usual demeanour, stating: "He is a people's champion, usually. He talks a lot and is conversational all the time. I don't know. I am waiting for the press conference."
She also pointed out the unusual nature of snubbing Courier, saying: "It's strange because it was Jim Courier. Usually, Novak is very respectful."
This incident follows Djokovic's earlier confrontation with a heckler during his third-round victory against Tomas Machac.
During that match, Djokovic engaged in lighter exchanges with a spectator he believed to be drunk, ultimately responding to one interruption by saying: "Sorry, mate, I have a wife."
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Novak Djokovic is not a crowd favourite in Australia
REUTERS
The 10-time Australian Open champion will now face Carlos Alcaraz in Tuesday's quarter-final.
The highly anticipated match-up comes earlier than expected due to Djokovic's recent rankings dip, which placed both players in the same quarter of the draw.
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