Novak Djokovic's behaviour sparked a flurry of boos on Centre Court at Wimbledon after he launched into an angry confrontation with the umpire. The seven-time champion was incensed over what he believed to be an incorrect call during his quarter-final clash with Felix Auger-Aliassime.
Disputed Let Call Ignites Fury
In the third set, which Djokovic led 5-2, he accused Swedish umpire Louise Azemar Engzell of failing to utilise every resource available to oversee the match. Having moved into a 30-15 advantage, Djokovic had yet another golden opportunity to break his Canadian opponent, having already done so earlier in the set. However, when he was unable to return Auger-Aliassime's serve, Djokovic was adamant that the ball had clipped the net cord and ought to have been awarded as a let.
Azemar Engzell disagreed with Djokovic's assessment and duly awarded the point to Auger-Aliassime. At that moment, the 39-year-old turned towards the official in utter disbelief.
Djokovic's Outburst on Court
Djokovic cried "let, let, let" as his return flew well past the baseline, before storming over to Azemar Engzell to lodge his complaint. He demanded: "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."
Tim Henman, commentating for the BBC, clarified that there is no technology at Wimbledon for calling a let. As Djokovic turned away in frustration to resume play, Centre Court erupted into a resounding chorus of boos.
Crowd Reaction and Earlier Dispute
It remained uncertain whether the crowd were expressing their frustration at Djokovic's reaction or at the umpire's choice not to replay the point. Djokovic had, however, already made his displeasure known earlier in the match when officials opted to close the roof on Centre Court at a point he considered far too soon.
Tournament referee Denise Parnell made her way onto court to explain the reasoning behind the decision to shut the roof at 7.40pm. Djokovic 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."
