SUMMARY
- Djokovic admits mocking Shelton's celebration purposely at the 2023 US Open, raising concerns about sportsmanship.
- Fans react to his revelation, emphasizing the unexpected twist and broader questions about his candid responses.
In a surprising turn of events, world no. 1 Novak Djokovic, known for his candid admissions, recently admitted to purposefully mocking Ben Shelton’s phone celebrations during the 2023 US Open. The revelation adds a new layer to the story, raising questions about sportsmanship. This comes after Djokovic initially described Shelton’s celebration as “original” and a form of flattery.
Ben Shelton, the unseeded 20-year-old American, had gained attention for his unique phone celebration during his journey to the semi-finals at the US Open. Djokovic, after defeating Shelton in a tense semi-final clash, mimicked the celebration on his way to securing his 24th Grand Slam title. Initially, Djokovic claimed it was a compliment, but his recent admission reveals a different story.
Speaking candidly before the start of the Australian Open in 2024, Djokovic revealed his true intentions behind the mock gesture. He stated, “Regarding Ben Shelton, it was a reaction against him, on the fact that he did not behave correctly, with respect on the court, and also before the match.” This admission challenges his initial response to his actions.
OH SO YOU LIED!! Hmmmmm….. At the US Open you said ‘I like the celebration, it is very nice.’
Now you say this?? So you Completely lied back in August. I see… Fraudovic at it again. 🙄
— Professor Nez (@professornez) January 13, 2024
Fans expressed their dismay at Djokovic’s admission, highlighting the contradiction in his statements. One fan pointed out Djokovic’s earlier endorsement of Shelton’s celebration, stating, “OH SO YOU LIED!!… At the US Open, you said ‘I like the celebration, it is very nice.’ Now you say this?? Fraudovic at it again.”
As the controversy surrounding Djokovic’s admission unfolds, it raises broader questions about sportsmanship and the dynamics between players on and off the court. Djokovic’s recent revelation adds an unexpected twist to the story, leaving fans intrigued by his candid responses.
Novak Djokovic is confident amid wrist woes ahead of Australian Open
Novak Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, addressed concerns surrounding a right wrist injury ahead of the Australian Open. Following a recent straight-sets loss to Alex De Minaur at the United Cup due to the wrist issue, Djokovic assured reporters that he has faced more serious challenges in his previous two campaigns down under.
Despite the setback, he expressed confidence in pain-free practice sessions leading up to the tournament, stating, “It’s all looking good. Let’s see how it goes.” Reflecting on his history of injuries, including a torn hamstring during his last year’s title win and managing an abdominal injury in 2021, Djokovic downplayed the current wrist situation.
Novak Djokovic says his right wrist is not painful anymore
“My wrist is good. I had time from the last match against de Minaur to my first match here to recover. I’ve been training well.
Practice sessions pain-free so far. It’s good. It’s all looking good.”(via @afpfr) pic.twitter.com/BHcGlhHGZw
— We Are Tennis (@WeAreTennis) January 13, 2024
However, he had voiced caution, stating, “I can’t predict whether it’s going to come back. Once I start playing more matches, the stress levels go higher. I don’t know. We have to find out.” Djokovic’s resilience in the face of adversity has always shone bright, as fans wait to watch the tennis maestro back in action at the Australian Open 2024.