Novak Djokovic post-match interview: Tennis star blasts Wimbledon crowd’s ‘disrespect’ after win vs. Holger Rune

Novak Djokovic caused a stir at Wimbledon on Monday after his victory over Holger Rune.

During the match, the crowd was heard loudly chanting “Ruuuuuune!,” as is customary for Rune’s supporters. However, Djokovic interpreted this as “Booooo”s directed at him, which may have been the case.

Although it remains unclear what exactly was being said, the 24-time Grand Slam winner was clearly displeased. He took the opportunity to address the audience in his post-match remarks before exiting the court. Here’s what the quarterfinalist had to say following his hard-fought three-set triumph.

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Novak Djokovic’s post-match interview today

In his post-match speech, Djokovic adopted a sarcastic tone when acknowledging the crowd, expressing gratitude to his supporters while also belittling his detractors:

“To all the fans who have shown respect and remained here tonight: Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” he stated. “And to those individuals who have opted to disrespect the player – in this case, me – have a goooood night. Gooooood night. Gooooood night. Very gooooood night.”

Evidently imitating the “boos” he believed he heard, Djokovic persisted even after the interviewer suggested that the noise was merely in support of Rune. The seven-time Wimbledon champion refused to accept that explanation.

“I understand they were cheering for Rune, but that’s no excuse to boo,” Djokovic remarked. “Listen, I’ve been on the tour for over 20 years, so trust me, I’m familiar with all the tactics. I know how it goes.”

He concluded by asserting, “I’ve competed in far more hostile environments, believe me. You guys can’t faze me.”

Novak Djokovic not happy with the crowd at Wimbledon after match with Rune

“I know they were cheering for Rune but that’s an excuse to boo… I know all the tricks..”

“I’ve played in much more hostile environments. You guys can’t touch me”

🥶

pic.twitter.com/pdnFFQwiGm

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) July 8, 2024

During the post-match press conference, Djokovic was asked whether he believes the All-England Club should intervene to address fan conduct. He responded that he is unsure of what can effectively be done.

“Yes, one could argue that perhaps a chair umpire or someone else could step in at certain moments to calm them down, but there’s not much that can be done,” he remarked. “You can’t eject an entire section of the crowd or stadium because of their misbehavior or disrespect.”

Novak Djokovic vs. Holger Rune score

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Novak Djokovic’s Wimbledon record

Djokovic has clinched the Wimbledon title seven times and has reached the Finals on nine occasions. He has participated in the tournament every year except for 2020, when it was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Here is an overview of the tennis star’s Wimbledon performance since 2005: