Novak Djokovic disagrees with BBC host over ‘disrespectful’ behaviour in awkward live TV interview at Wimbledon
NOVAK DJOKOVIC insisted the Wimbledon crowd was “disrespecting” him during his last-16 match against Holger Rune on Wednesday.
The World No2 cruised to a 6-3 6-4 6-2 win over his opponent on Centre Court but felt that several fans were rooting against him.
Speaking live on BBC Sport after the match, he refused the suggestion that they were simply chanting for Rune as opposed to booing.
The interviewer said: “I’m hoping that they were just commenting on Rune and that they weren’t disrespecting you…”
But Djokovic quickly chimed in to respond: “They were disrespecting me. I don’t accept it, no, no, no.
“I know they were cheering for Rune but that is also an excuse to boo.
“Listen, I have been on the Tour for more than 20 years. So trust me, I know all the tricks, I know how it works.
“It’s fine, it’s fine, it’s OK. I focus on the respectful people, those who have respect, who have the tickets to come to watch me tonight.
“Who love tennis, who appreciate the players and the effort put in.
“I’ve played in much more hostile environments, trust me. You guys can’t touch me.”
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The 37-year-old will now play Australian Alex de Minaur in Wednesday’s quarter-finals.
Djokovic was forced to withdraw from the French Open last month due to a knee injury.
He subsequently underwent surgery on a torn medial meniscus in his right knee.
But his rapid recovery to return in time for Wimbledon left fans in disbelief.
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