Novak Djokovic opens up about confrontation with British fans

Novak Djokovic found himself in a confrontation with British fans due to their “disrespect” after Serbia defeated Great Britain in the Davis Cup last eight on Thursday.

The world number one led Serbia to a 2-0 win, defeating Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-4 in the second singles rubber. However, after the match, Djokovic addressed a group of British fans and advised them to “learn how to behave.”

Djokovic expressed his frustration as some fans attempted to drown out his victory speech with drums, prompting the tennis superstar to respond.

“The entire match pretty much, there was disrespect but it’s something I have to be prepared for in the Davis Cup,” Djokovic, 36, told reporters.

“It’s normal that fans step over the line and in the heat of the moment you react too and in a way show that you don’t allow this kind of behaviour.”

“During the match, the record 24-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic was irked by the same fans causing a disturbance and cupped his hand to his ear after winning a point in the second set.”

His impatience escalated when the fans would not allow him to speak undisturbed after his victory.

Djokovic’s victory sets him on a course to face Italy’s Jannik Sinner, whom he beat on Sunday in the ATP Finals to clinch his seventh title of the season.

Sinner defeated Djokovic in the group stage of that competition and the pair are set to meet again when Italy face Serbia in the Davis Cup semi-finals on Saturday.

“He’s really confident and playing, as I said, some of the best tennis that we saw him play ever. I’m not playing bad myself. So it’s going to be, I think, a great match,” Djokovic commented.

Djokovic said he watched some of Sinner’s singles and doubles victories for Italy in their 2-1 triumph over the Netherlands earlier Thursday and continues to be impressed by the world number four.

“He’s really confident and playing, as I said, some of the best tennis that we saw him play ever. I’m not playing bad myself. So it’s going to be, I think, a great match,” Djokovic commented.

rbs/iwd