Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic has let rip in a colourful post-match interview after he secured a spot in the last eight where he’ll take on Alex de Minaur in the quarter-finals.
Tennis star Novak Djokovic recently “raised the bar” in a tweet addressing one of his “biggest” critics’ recent death, Sky News host James Macpherson says.
“One of Novak’s biggest critics, sports journalist Mike Dickson, tragically collapsed and died while covering the tennis last week,” Mr Macpherson said.
“He called Novak a deplorable, a fanatic, a dangerous quack – he wrote Novak’s reputation had been ‘trashed beyond repair’.
Mr Novak left a message on Twitter reading: ‘Condolences to Mike Dickson’s family. Rest in peace.’
The Serbian tennis star’s critics have “never” been so gracious toward him and the champion continues to “raise the bar” both on, and off the court, Mr Macpherson said.
The Serbian tennis star sailed through his clash on Monday (local time) with relative ease, defeating 15th seed Holger Rune in straight sets 6-3, 6-4, 6-2.
A section of fans at the Centre Court could be heard chanting the Dane’s name during the match, however, Djokovic accused them of booing him.
“To all the fans that have had respect and stayed here tonight, I thank you from the bottom of my heart and I appreciate it,” Djokovic said in his post-match court interview.
“And to all those people that have chosen to disrespect the player — in this case me — have a goooooooood night.”
Novak Djokovic accused fans of booing during his round of 16 victory over Holger Rune at Wimbledon. Picture: Julian Finney/Getty Images
The interviewer told the Serb fans were shouting “Rune” and not booing him, but Djokovic insisted it was a clever way for the crowd to jeer him.
“They were. They were (booing me). I am not accepting it. No, no, no. I know they were cheering for Rune but that’s an excuse to also boo,” he said.
“Listen, I have been on the tour for more than 20 years. I know all the tricks. I focus on the respectful people that pay for the ticket, and love tennis and appreciate the players.
“I have played in much more hostile environments, trust me. You guys can’t touch me.”
Djokovic later doubled down with a tongue-in-cheek post at his naysayers on X, sharing a picture of him during the match with the caption: “Sliding into quarters. Goooooooooooood night :-).”
The polarising former No.1 has had more than his fair share of run-ins with crowds around in the world in the past often cheering for his downfall.
The 37-year-old remains in top form despite undergoing knee surgery last month which led to him losing his first place ranking to Italian Jannik Sinner.
Djokovic’s win over Rune takes him to his 15th quarter-final at Wimbledon.
SkyNews.com.au Digital Reporter Reilly Sullivan says there are “fresh hopes” Princess Kate could attend Wimbledon.
“Of course she is the patron of the All England Tennis Club,” he told Sky News Digital Presenter Gabriella Power.
“The club chair came out last week and confirmed that they have not yet found a replacement for this year’s tournament therefore they’re working with Princess Kate and obviously based on her health and her condition.”
It will also be his 60th Grand Slam quarter-final, where he will face Australia’s top men’s player and world No.9 Alex de Minaur in an expected thrilling battle.
De Minaur overcame Frenchman Arthur Fils in the round of 16 in four sets 6-2 6-4 4-6 and 6-3 to reach his first Wimbledon quarter-final.
The 25-year-old Australian has faced Djokovic on just three occasions, losing twice and winning once – in the quarters of the United Cup earlier this year.