Novak Djokovic erupted in fury at umpire Louise Azemar Engzell during his Wimbledon quarter-final against Felix Auger-Aliassime, prompting a chorus of boos from the Centre Court crowd. The seven-time champion, 39, was incensed after the Swedish official rejected his claim that a serve had clipped the net cord and should have been replayed as a let.
Disputed Let Call Sparks Outburst
In the third set, with Djokovic leading 5-2 and 30-15, he failed to return Auger-Aliassime's serve and immediately insisted the ball had touched the net. When Engzell ruled against him, Djokovic screamed "let, let, let" as his return sailed beyond the baseline. He then stormed over to the umpire to protest, shouting: "You didn't see the let? This is embarrassing, come on. You don't have to use the machine you can also use your... I mean."
BBC commentator Tim Henman explained that Wimbledon does not employ technology to detect lets, leaving the decision solely to the umpire's judgment. As Djokovic turned away in disbelief, the Centre Court crowd erupted into boos, though it was unclear whether they were directed at Djokovic's reaction or the umpire's call.
Earlier Roof Closure Dispute
Djokovic had already voiced frustration earlier in the match when tournament referee Denise Parnell decided to close the roof at 7:40 pm, which he considered premature. He fumed: "Why now? Why? The other day you didn't want to close it until, like, 8.20, 8.30, and now you want to close it? You don't want to get to 8.30? It's 7.40 now. We can play a whole another set. Outdoors. We are an outdoor tournament."
The match continued under the closed roof, but the controversy highlighted Djokovic's tense relationship with officials at this year's Wimbledon. The Serbian star, seeking his eighth title, faced a determined Auger-Aliassime in what proved to be a heated contest.
