Novak Djokovic’s clash with Andrey Rublev sees ‘APPALING BEHAVIOR’ from the Wimbledon staff as John McEnroe calls them out

This incident comes at a time when scheduling challenges have been a cause for concern at Wimbledon.


Novak Djokovic’s clash with Andrey Rublev sees ‘APPALING BEHAVIOR’ from the Wimbledon staff as John McEnroe calls them out

Andrey Rublev and Novak Djokovic (Credits: Wimbledon and Reuters)

During the Wimbledon quarterfinal match between Novak Djokovic and Andrey Rublev, the behavior of the Wimbledon staff came under scrutiny.

As per the reports, the staff allowed fans back into the venue after the first game, something that is typically not allowed on Centre Court. This unexpected development led to a disruption in the match and drew criticism from commentators and spectators alike.

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During Djokovic’s clash with Rublev, BBC commentators noticed that fans were allowed to re-enter the venue after the first set. This unusual occurrence caught the attention of both the commentators and the umpire, who intervened to prevent further disturbances to the match.

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Unheard of here at Wimbledon, letting people in after the first game. 
Commentator John McEnroe remarked

Co-commentator Andrew Castle termed it as “appalling behavior.”

This incident comes at a time when scheduling challenges have been a cause for concern at Wimbledon. Players like Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray have been forced to play games over two days due to the tournament’s 11:00 p.m. curfew. Djokovic, in particular, has expressed his frustration with the current scheduling system and called for a change.

Djokovic spoke of the problems with Wimbledon curfew, pleaded for scheduling changes

The curfew, aimed at maintaining peace and minimizing disturbances in the residential area surrounding the Wimbledon venue, has posed challenges for players and organizers alike. The issue of scheduling has become a topic of debate, especially for high-profile matches that require sufficient time for completion.

Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic (Credits: @Wimbledon/YouTube)

Obviously curfew is probably something that is much more difficult to change. I understand, because of the community and the residential area we are in. I think the matches could be pushed at least to start at 12:00. That would make a difference.

Djokovic said during his post-match press conference. as he pleaded for change.

Moreover, this year’s tournament saw fans facing extensive queues as security measures were heightened due to potential protests. Some fans had to wait for up to 10 hours before entering the venue, causing frustration and exhaustion.

The incident during Djokovic’s match also had an impact on the fan experience. Many spectators left the venue after Djokovic lost the first set, hoping to return to their seats later to witness a potential comeback. The unexpected re-entry of fans after the first game disrupted the flow of the match and left some fans unable to secure their seats.

In spite of the disturbances, Djokovic managed to make short work of his opponent, Rublev. He has now secured his spot in his 12th Wimbledon semifinal. He is set to face 8th seed Jannik Sinner in the semifinals.

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