Novak Djokovic has issued a heartfelt apology after a close call with a ball girl during his Australian Open match, an incident that could have threatened his campaign in Melbourne. The 24-time grand slam champion acknowledged his luck in avoiding a repeat of his infamous disqualification from the US Open in 2020, where he struck a line judge with a ball.
Historic Victory Overshadowed by Tense Moment
Despite achieving a monumental milestone with his 6-3 6-4 7-6 (4) victory over Botic van de Zandschulp, Djokovic's match was marred by a risky moment in the second set. The 38-year-old Serbian inadvertently sent a ball flying dangerously close to the head of a ball girl stationed at the net, prompting immediate concern from spectators and officials alike.
Reflecting on Past Incidents and Current Relief
Djokovic openly addressed the situation post-match, stating, "I apologise for that. That was not necessary and in the heat of the moment. I was lucky there, and I'm sorry for causing any distress to the ball kid or anybody." This incident echoes his 2020 disqualification and several other instances where his on-court actions have risked similar outcomes, highlighting ongoing scrutiny over player conduct in high-pressure situations.
Match Dynamics and Physical Concerns
The straight-sets win marked only the second grand slam since Wimbledon 2023 where Djokovic has reached the fourth round without dropping a set, yet it was not without its alarms. Dutch opponent Van de Zandschulp applied pressure after a medical timeout for a shoulder issue, while Djokovic himself sparked worries when he fell and clutched his right ankle in the third set, later attributed to a blister requiring treatment.
Crowd Interactions and Set Point Drama
Djokovic faced further challenges in the third set, saving two set points at 5-6 and engaging in his latest tussle with the Melbourne crowd over noise during points. He repeatedly gestured for silence by putting a finger to his lips and cupped his hand to his ear upon securing the win, adding to the match's intense atmosphere.
Looking Ahead with Caution and Confidence
Assessing his performance, Djokovic noted, "I relaxed a little bit too much and was in trouble closing out the second set, and pretty much from that moment onwards it was anybody's game. I was really lucky to get out of the set point in the third. Just glad to overcome it in straights." He emphasised a cautious approach moving forward, learning from last year's early excitement, and aims to challenge younger competitors like next opponent Jakub Mensik.
Downplaying ankle concerns, Djokovic added, "Thankfully I managed to have a good fall. Things could have been very ugly," underscoring the fine margins in professional tennis. This victory not only equalled Roger Federer's record of 102 wins in Australia but also cemented Djokovic's status as the first player ever to achieve 400 singles wins at grand slams, a testament to his enduring legacy amidst the day's controversies.
