Alex Dolgopolov demands ‘Ban for life’ after Novak Djokovic’s father Srdjan was spotted with Russians in protests at the Australian Open
Former Ukrainian tennis pro Alexander Dolgopolov demanded for the extreme measure after the controversial symbol made its way to AO.
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Alexander Dolgopolov, Novak Djokovic
The issue involving the controversial ‘Z’ symbol during the Australian Open has blown out of proportion. With the appearance of the symbol and the Russian fans chanting slogans at Rod Laver Arena, Novak Djokovic and his father are at the center of controversy Down Under.
Djokovic never had a busy Grand Slam as the 2023 edition of the Australian Open. The 35-year-old is being tested both mentally and physically in the last few days. On the court, he is fighting with a hamstring injury and off-court he is busy with the perception battle. He is clearly winning the first one but the latter is dragging him down.
Despite the security measures and restrictions put up by the organization, the Russian supporters have made their way to an international tennis tournament. Djokovic and his family have been warned about the same but the Serb is still caught with widespread backlash in Australia. The Ukrainian Ambassador also joined in the criticism. But unfortunately, that’s not all.
Related: Don’t drag Novak Djokovic’s Dad Srdjan into the Russian flag controversy at the Australian Open
Australian Open releases advisory, Alex Dolgopolov demands a ban on Novak Djokovic
The players were briefed by the organizers after Novak Djokovic’s father was videoed with pro-Russia protestors. “A small group of people displayed inappropriate flags and symbols and threatened security guards following a match on Wednesday night and were evicted. One patron is now assisting police with unrelated matters.”
Players and their teams have been briefed and reminded of the event policy regarding flags and symbols to avoid any situation that has the potential to disrupt. We continue to work closely with event security and law enforcement agencies,” the statement of tennis Australia read.
The word ‘ban’ is chasing Novak Djokovic like a ghost. Alex Dolgopolov, former Ukrainian pro has now demanded a ban on the Serb because of the latest controversy. “This guy will get banned for life, at least for all Australian events, right? @AustralianOpen,” he posted on Twitter.
When the dust around the off-court drama settles Novak Djokovic will be remembered for his tennis exploits the most. The nine-time Australian Open champion is well aware of that. He is focused on his quest for a record-extending tenth title Down Under and is doing everything to not let a forgettable issue cloud his time in Australia. The way he has handled all the negativities around him is definitely a trademark of a legend.
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Abhinavendu Singh
(290 Articles Published)