Novak Djokovic was dumped out of Indian Wells last night by Luca Nardi and something during the match really riled him.
The Serbian is yet to win a title this year and he had a bit of an altercation with the umpire during last night’s match.
So, what happened to Djokovic last night and what was he so miffed at the umpire for? Let’s take a closer look…
What Novak Djokovic said to the umpire against Luca Nardi
Well, this was a turn-up for the books with Nardi a lucky loser who didn’t originally qualify for the tournament.
Djokovic lost in three sets 4-6, 6-3, 3-6 and a flash point came in the second set when he felt as though he’d been hard done by.
Nardi felt as though the serve was going to be called out but when he wasn’t, he nonchalantly nudged it over the net.
Djokovic recovered to return the shot but left the court gaping for Nardi to easily win the point.
He wasn’t impressed and an argument ensued with the umpire and Sky Sports Tennis picked up the following conversation:
Umpire: “He reacted to the call, he didn’t make the call he didn’t actually stop the point.”
Djokovic: “He stopped.”
Umpire: “Just because he stopped, it doesn’t mean the point stops.”
Djokovic: “Just because he stops, it doesn’t mean the point stops? What are you talking about?”
Umpire: “So he can react but as long as he doesn’t…”
Djokovic: “No, actually he stopped and that’s it, he confused me because I stopped as well. How can you not make that judgement? Are you kidding me or what?”
Umpire: “Are you wanting me to call him?”
Djokovic: “Of course because the guy stopped and he played the ball and I’ve stopped.”
Umpire: “Just because he stands there, he still continues to play the point.”
Is the end near for Djokovic?
In truth, the answer is probably no. He’s still in fine fettle but this defeat will naturally spark some questions over how much longer he has at the top level.
Djokovic was comprehensively beaten by Jannik Sinner at the Australian Open in the semi-final stage and at 36, there will come a time when he doesn’t win all the time.
However, that time might not be just yet, with the serial title winner still in good shape and keen to exact some form of revenge for this defeat.
With three more Grand Slams still to play this year, Djokovic will be eyeing the prizes at those events more than any others.
The player will be keen to cement himself at the top of the all-time list of winners, with Wimbledon an event in particular that he will fancy.
This result was a turn-up for the books. His spat with the umpire perhaps showcases that he’s feeling the pressure a tiny bit and his rivals might pick up on that.
After a few poor performances so far this year, it will now be fascinating to see how 2024 does pan out for one of the greatest male players to ever swing a tennis racquet.
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