On Thursday, following Serbia’s Davis Cup quarterfinal victory in Malaga, Novak Djokovic accused British supporters of being disrespectful. He said some supporters had attempted to bother him during his straight-sets victory against Cameron Norrie, the 24-time Grand Slam champion. He yelled at them to stop when they noisily drummed during his post-match interview.
He told reporters, “That’s disrespectful, but that’s something you have to be ready for in a Davis Cup.”
“It’s common for supporters to cross boundaries occasionally. Sometimes, in the heat of the moment, you also respond and make it clear that you don’t tolerate this behavior.
“They are free to act anyway they choose, but I will react to it. We did wind up having a little conversation since they had been trying to irritate me the entire game,” he said.
Despite saying he wasn’t feeling well after a demanding season, Djokovic wanted to help Serbia win the Davis Cup.
After winning three Grand Slam championships and the ATP Finals, the 36-year-old world number one continued, “Being there on the court for my country is always extra push, extra motivation.”
“Part of me looks forward to rest, recalibration, and leaving the racquet on the side, but right now I cannot allow myself to enjoy those thoughts about holidays.” On Saturday, Serbia will play Italy in the semifinals.
