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Tim Henman predicts what the Wimbledon crowd will do when Novak Djokovic walks on court vs Lorenzo Musetti

Photo by ANDREJ ISAKOVIC/AFP via Getty Images
Photo by ANDREJ ISAKOVIC/AFP via Getty Images
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Tim Henman is confused by Novak Djokovic’s attitude towards the Wimbledon crowd ahead of his semi-final with Lorenzo Musetti.

Throughout his career the Serbian has been a polarising figure among tennis crowds, especially in some of his biggest matches at the All-England Club.

He has sought a level of love and admiration of the audience similar to what rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal receive.

But that did not appear to be the case during his most recent match at SW19 as he expressed his displeasure with sections of the crowd who were cheering for Holger Rune during their fourth round match.

What did Tim Henman say about Novak Djokovic’s relationship with the Wimbledon crowd?

Following his comprehensive 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win against Rune, Djokovic told the audience exactly what he thought of them. “I know they were cheering for Rune but that’s an excuse to also boo,” he said.

“I have been on the tour for more than 20 years. I know all the tricks. I played in much more hostile environments, trust me – you guys can’t touch me.”

During an episode of BBC’s 6-Love-6 podcast, Henman was baffled by what looks like a new approach to hostile crowds by the 24-time Grand Slam champion, which he will play in front against Lorenzo Musetti in the Wimbledon semi-final.

“I am looking forward to him going on court and the crowd,” the Brit said. “I think he is going to get an interesting reception. He loves to be the villain, I don’t get it.”

Day Eight: The Championships - Wimbledon 2024
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

What has Novak Djokovic previously said about hostile crowds?

Djokovic’s explosive on-court interview after defeating Rune came as a surprise to many.

He also addressed the matter of crowd reactions after appearing on the ‘Good Trouble’ podcast with Nick Kyrgios, where he was much more diplomatic.

“I don’t know, it really depends. People think that I really thrive on that energy when somebody doesn’t like me or I’m facing adversity on and off the court,” said the 24-time Grand Slam champion.

“Sometimes I do, because that’s the only thing I have at that moment. I have to find a solution. I have to find a way to win a tennis match and be who I am, be true to myself.”