Novak Djokovic’s relationship with the Wimbledon crowd took another turn during his fourth-round victory over Holger Rune. While hundreds of fans cheered Rune’s winners and Djokovic’s errors with extended chants of “Ruuuuuuu-ne,” Djokovic interpreted them as boos.
Djokovic, a straight-sets winner, felt disrespected by the crowd. When the interviewer clarified that the chants supported his opponent, Djokovic remained unconvinced. He claimed his experience allowed him to see through the “excuse” of cheering.
This isn’t the first time Djokovic has faced a less-than-enthusiastic Wimbledon crowd. In 2019, his coach felt Djokovic deserved more respect after a final win against Roger Federer. Additionally, boos followed his 2021 semifinal victory over Briton Cameron Norrie.
Djokovic maintained composure during most of the match. However, he did stare towards Rune supporters after winning the second set and while waiting for his interview. He addressed the crowd, thanking respectful fans and declaring his resilience to negativity.
Rune, on the other hand, insisted the chants were clearly his name being stretched. He believed any confusion stemmed from not knowing the context.
This isn’t an uncommon phenomenon in sports. Fans often stretch vowels in player names to create chants. It happened at Wimbledon earlier this year with Sue Barker and Joe Root.
Djokovic might have lightened up by the end. He finished his interview with a playful jab at those who “disrespected” him.
