Novak Djokovic, arguably one of the greatest tennis players ever, might have a future career as a pantomime villain at the New Wimbledon Theatre, given his dramatic flair on the court.
Over his 19-year tenure at Wimbledon, Djokovic has perfected the art of engaging the crowd, transforming any perceived slight into fuel for his performance.
Recently, Djokovic claimed that the Wimbledon crowd was disrespecting him during a match. Whether the crowd was actually booing him or just supporting his opponent Holger Rune with chants of “Ruuuuuuuuunne” is up for debate. However, this incident served its purpose: to ignite Djokovic’s competitive fire.
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In a post-match interview with BBC’s Rishi Pershad, Djokovic adamantly defended his position, asserting that despite their supposed cheering for Rune, the crowd was also booing him. He dismissed this as just another “trick” he’s familiar with after two decades on the tour. Djokovic insisted he focused on the respectful fans who genuinely appreciate tennis.
Djokovic’s conviction that the Wimbledon crowd is against him isn’t new. In 2019, he famously claimed that when the crowd chanted “Roger” for Roger Federer, he heard “Novak” instead, convincing himself to stay motivated. His recent interactions with the crowd and media, including shushing them during matches and criticizing British fans at last year’s Davis Cup, suggest a recurring theme.
Despite his assertions, the notion of a conspiracy against Djokovic is exaggerated. Wimbledon’s Centre Court atmosphere, characterized by its genteel spectators enjoying strawberries and champagne, hardly qualifies as hostile. His belief in widespread disrespect seems to be a psychological tactic to bolster his on-court performance. While Djokovic plays the role of a polarizing figure, often cupping his ear to the crowd or expressing grievances, he is respected and even liked behind the scenes. His contributions to the sport, including his role on the player council, demonstrate his commitment to tennis beyond his personal dramas.
Ultimately, Djokovic’s perceived slights may just be a part of his game strategy. As he continues to dominate, his interactions with the crowd will remain a spectacle, blending sport with theatre. While he may convince himself of the crowd’s hostility, it’s clear that Djokovic thrives on these narratives, adding to the rich tapestry of his legendary career.
