Novak Djokovic's habit of punching his own leg during a Wimbledon third-round match against Arthur Rinderknech has drawn criticism from BBC pundit Jamie Murray. The Serb beat his leg 11 times during the match, which he eventually won in four sets. Murray suggested the 24-time Grand Slam champion might regret the self-inflicted blows the next day.
Murray and Henman Weigh In
Speaking on BBC commentary, Jamie Murray said: "That might leave a mark in the morning. He might regret that tomorrow." Fellow pundit Tim Henman added: "My opponent was battering me as much as it is, let alone battering myself. That was a little bit OTT I think from Djokovic but whatever it takes to get the motivation going." Henman noted that Djokovic knew the early part of the fourth set was vital to change the momentum after losing the third set, and praised the quality of the fourth set from both players.
Match Context
Djokovic had a two-set lead before dropping the third set to the Frenchman. The self-punching incident occurred as he tried to motivate himself to close out the match. The tactic worked, as Djokovic went on to win the match and advance to the fourth round at the All England Club.
