WATCH: Novak Djokovic ignores the umpire’s instructions and races to the toilet as another official intervenes
Novak Djokovic ignores all the orders of the chair umpire and other officials to go use the washroom at the 2023 Australian Open.
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Novak Djokovic makes a quick dash to the washroom after the chair umpire refused him permission
Novak Djokovic‘s return to the 2023 Australian Open has started with drama in the very first round. Up against Roberto Carballes Baena, Djokovic was leading 3-2 at the end of the fifth game. The Spaniard was supposed to serve in the next game.
Before the players returned to the baseline, Djokovic requested the chair umpire to allow him to use the washroom to relax himself. Djokovic looked in a hurry and made a loud request from the distance as the Rod Laver Arena was buzzing.
The chair umpire refused to grant him permission. The Serb waited but upon refusal raced to the washroom anyway. As he ran to make the exit, another on-court official tried to stop him but the former World No. 1 was quick enough to dodge past him.
The camera then cut to the chair umpire who was on her walkie with the other officials. Upon his return to the court, Djokovic did not address the chair umpire and moved to his side of the court picking up his racket. No penalty was awarded during the match although he might be penalized later upon the match’s conclusion if the umpires see it fit.
Novak Djokovic wins the first set
Following the unwarranted stoppage, Novak Djokovic returned to business and quickly wrapped up the first set. He lost only one other game as he won the first set 6-3. The Serb is eyeing his tenth Australian Open title this year. The win could take him to 22 Grand Slam singles titles.
He will be able to then match the tally of Rafael Nadal who leads the ATP Tour currently with 22 of his own. A win today will take Djokovic into the second round where he will be facing the winner of the clash between Hugo Dellien and Enzo Couacaud.
For Djokovic fans, there will however remain a slight concern for their favorite player. Having experienced difficulty in his hamstring, the Serb has his left thigh taped as precaution and one would only hope his fitness issues doesn’t affect his brilliance on the court.
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Sarthak Shitole
(3462 Articles Published)