Novak Djokovic opted to express his views on a match through a self-recorded video rather than participating in what would likely have been another engaging and insightful interview with Jim Courier. He promptly clarified that his decision was not influenced by Courier or the audience, but rather by a journalist who had crossed a line with his jesting directed at Djokovic's supporters two days before the fourth-round match.

The journalist in question, Tony Jones, is well-known for courting controversy; his penchant for humour has previously placed him in difficult situations. Nevertheless, this incident is merely the latest in a long series of controversies that have accompanied Djokovic throughout his remarkable and record-setting career.

Views on science, medicine and vaccines

Djokovic has explicitly stated that he does not align himself with the broader anti-vaccination movement; however, he chose not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine during a period when the pandemic was at its peak. In April 2020, he expressed his opposition to vaccination during a Facebook live session, later clarifying that his stance was specifically against mandatory vaccination. This issue escalated prior to the 2022 Australian Open when Djokovic was detained by the Australian Border Force upon his arrival in Australia, where vaccination was a requirement for entry. During his detention, several inconsistencies emerged, including an incorrect statement in his travel declaration indicating that he had not travelled in the previous 14 days. Additionally, irregularities were found in his COVID-19 test documentation, which ultimately prevented him from obtaining an exemption. Consequently, Djokovic was deported three days after his arrival.

Many of the beliefs articulated by Djokovic have been labelled as pseudoscientific on multiple occasions. For instance, he claimed that polluted water could be purified through positive emotions. "I have witnessed individuals, and I know some, who, through energetic transformation, the power of prayer, and gratitude, can convert the most toxic food or the most contaminated water into the most healing water. Water is responsive, and scientists have demonstrated that the molecules in water react to our emotions and spoken words," he stated during an Instagram live session in May 2020.

Relationship with crowds

Djokovic's prominent rivals, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have seldom encountered a hostile audience, a circumstance that has not been as favourable for the Serbian player. Indeed, one might contend that Djokovic has often faced a lack of support throughout his career, particularly in matches against either Nadal or Federer. A notable instance of this occurred during the remarkable 2019 Wimbledon final against Federer. The tournament had essentially been a stronghold for the Swiss maestro, who was in pursuit of his ninth title. Nevertheless, Djokovic thwarted this ambition, saving two match points and ultimately triumphing in what is regarded as one of the most memorable finals at Wimbledon, with a score of 7–6(7–5), 1–6, 7–6(7–4), 4–6, 13–12(7–3). Following his victory, Djokovic refrained from an exuberant celebration; instead, he simply smiled and approached the net to embrace Federer. "When the crowd is chanting 'Roger,' I hear 'Novak,'" remarked the Serbian player.

2020 US Open disqualification

Djokovic's fourth-round match at the 2020 US Open against Pablo Carreno Busta was not progressing favourably, as the Serbian player required on-court medical assistance during the contest. In a moment of frustration, he casually struck a spare ball from his pocket. What should have been an innocuous act took a serious turn when the ball struck an official in the throat, causing her to collapse and choke. Djokovic immediately rushed to her aid, expressing concern and ensuring her well-being, while also apologizing to the court officials and the chair umpire. Tournament referee Soeren Friemel soon arrived, initially engaging in a friendly conversation with Djokovic. However, as the discussion continued, Djokovic became increasingly animated. Ultimately, it was determined that he had been defaulted from the US Open.

Read Also: Djokovic Faces Alcaraz: A Clash Echoing Nadal Rivalry

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