Novak Djokovic’s hard fought win over Dominic Thiem wasn’t the only talking point concerning the Serbian at the O2 Arena. His unexpected outburst during a media conference has baffled many.
Known for his strong mental strength in the past, concerns about his mentality has been circulating around the Serbian in recent time due to his roller coaster year. The latest incident occurred after he lost the opening set to Dominic Thiem. Djokovic was handed a code violation after smashing a ball on the floor in the direction of his camp.
Reflecting on his latest triumph in London, the former world No.1 appeared to be back to his usual self with some enlightening engagement with the media concerning his performance and his opponent. It was a picture perfect Djokovic press conference, until somebody questioned him about the incident earlier on.
“You guys are unbelievable.” He replied. “You’re always picking these kind of things.”
Out of nowhere, the calm and collective presence of the Serbian was no more. Instead, he was agitated with the media for insinuating that his actions were worse than in reality. The point raised was a valid one. If the ball struck by Djokovic had hit a spectator, it would have resulted in a more severe punishment under the ATP rulebook. On the other hand, Djokovic has severely hit back at those concerns.
“I’m close? I’m still not suspended, so if I’m not close, I’m not close.” He responded when suggest the ball he hit was close to a member of the crowd.
“It could have been, yes. It could have snowed in O2 arena, as well, but it didn’t.”
Djokovic’s reasoning and abrupt argument is one that has left more questions than answers. There is no doubt that this week is crucial for the 29-year-old and his dream to return back to the top. It is understandable that he is feeling the pressure, but Djokovic is an expert when it comes to this. He has the grand slam collection to prove so.
As one of the best players in the world by a long margin, it is hard to tell if there is anything to read into Djokovic’s latest outburst. The week ahead could prove to be a bumpy ride for the four-time defending champion at the O2 Arena.
Full transcript
Q. Back to the end of the first set, we saw you similarly venting your frustration at Roland Garros, throwing your racquet. Does it concern you one day that will cost you dearly? If it hit someone…
NOVAK DJOKOVIC: You guys are unbelievable.
Q. Why is it unbelievable?
NOVAK DJOKOVIC: Because you’re always picking these kind of things.
Q. If you keep doing these things…
NOVAK DJOKOVIC: I keep doing these things? Why don’t you get suspended then?
Q. You were close, weren’t you?
NOVAK DJOKOVIC: I’m close? I’m still not suspended, so if I’m not close, I’m not close.
Q. If that ball had hit a spectator, it could have been serious.
NOVAK DJOKOVIC: It could have been, yes. It could have snowed in O2 arena, as well, but it didn’t.
Q. You’re not concerned about your mindset?
NOVAK DJOKOVIC: I’m the only player that shows his frustration on the court? That’s what you are saying?
Q. You’re one of the top-ranked players in the world.
NOVAK DJOKOVIC: So?
Q. You are showing this frustration. I’m asking you, do you think it’s an issue for you?
NOVAK DJOKOVIC: It is not an issue for me. It’s not the first time I did it.
End of questions (in English)
