“Baffles me how disliked he is at Wimbledon” – Novak Djokovic penalised wrongly for grunting during Wimbledon semi-finals, fans lash out on umpire

During the Wimbledon semifinal match between reigning champion Novak Djokovic and Italy’s Jannik Sinner, the Serb faced a controversial call from the umpire during the third game of the second set.

Having won the first set 6 – 3, Novak Djokovic was facing stiffer competition during the second set from Jannik Sinner, who seemed zoned in and keen to break his serve. During one such rally, with the two players exchanging groundstrokes, Djokovic grunted extensively after a shot.

However, the umpire called it hindrance as Sinner was close to hitting the ball while Novak was grunting. Suspecting foul play from the 2nd seed to disrupt Sinner’s game, the umpire called the point a hindrance, and play continued in the competition.

Fans on Twitter lash out over unjust umpire call, blaming it on Djokovic’s perceived reputation at Wimbledon

Fans watching the match took to Twitter to express their frustration with the unjust call. They argued that even for the mentally toughest players like Djokovic, such unjust calls during an important match could prove to be crucial and change the tide of the match.

Sharing a wide spectrum of reactions online, here’s what fans have to say:

It seems to be the general consensus that the hindrance call was unjust, given how many notable names on the tour, such as top seed Carlos Alcaraz, are known for their extended grunts. People also contrasted this incident with the now-famous point between Andrey Rublev and Alexander Bublik.

Bublik, during a marathon rally, finally seemed to have found a breakthrough when he hit a devastating backhand down the line, followed by a grunt, the likes of which are hit for certain winners. As we all know by now, Rublev miraculously retrieved the shot, earning him match – points.

This grunt was far more noticeable but was not acted upon by the umpire. Highlighting this double – standard by the umpires, especially with so much at stake during this Djokovic-Sinner match, which could potentially create history, has left fans worldwide disappointed with the umpire’s unjust ruling.

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