Nick Kyrgios defends Novak Djokovic from ‘idiotic’ media questions at US Open while terming him as the ‘greatest athlete of all time’

Kyrgios backs Djokovic after press conference controversy.

Nick Kyrgios defends Novak Djokovic from ‘idiotic’ media questions at US Open while terming him as the ‘greatest athlete of all time’

Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic (via IMAGO)

23-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic put on a clinical performance to get past the American no.1 Taylor Fritz in the quarter-final of the US Open 2023. Djokovic defeated the 9th seed 6-1,6-4,6-4 to reach his 47th major semi-final in his quest for a 10th final and fourth title at the US Open. Fritz struggled with his serve as he was broken 6 times by the Serb. Heading into the match Fritz held 49 of his 50 service games. With the win, Djokovic improved his head-to-head against the American to 8-0.

While it went smoothly on-court, Djokovic faced some seemingly ‘disrespectful’ questions in the post-match conference. Official US Open reporter Richard Osborn asked Djokovic to elaborate on why he was tough on his team during slams. Djokovic responded by saying that he cared about the sport and that he was serious about it and he expected the same from his team.

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Nick Kyrgios was particularly bemused by the question and subsequently lashed out at the journalist. Kyrgios shared a post on ‘X’ captioned, “Typical idiotic question. The guy is arguably the greatest athlete of all time. Clearly has never been in competition of a decent level in his life.”

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“I’ve been playing on this court for many years, played many epic matches, and I’m looking forward to another one in a few days,” Djokovic said talking about his semi-final match on Friday at the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

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Novak Djokovic thankful for the support and backing he has had throughout his life

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Novak Djokovic at the Cincinnati Masters (Getty Images)

“I was very lucky to encounter some very knowledgeable, very passionate people that supported me, believed in my talent and without them, without their support–my parents are here–I wouldn’t be here,” Djokovic told the crowd after his quarter-final win.

Talking about the hostile crowd, Djokovic said, “It’s expected that people are backing the home player, there’s nothing wrong with that. I like the atmosphere here, I’m fine with that and I thrive on that energy.”

Djokovic should not expect any respite in terms of hostility from the crowd as he next faces another home crowd favorite in 20-year-old American Ben Shelton. The southpaw is making his first Grand Slam semi-final appearance.

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