Djokovic, clear on why he mimicked Ben Shelton's phone gesture: "It was a natural reaction to his disrespect."

ATP
Sunday, 14 January 2024 at 09:27
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Novak Djokovic, the world number one in men's tennis, has commented on the recent imitation of Ben Shelton's celebration at the US Open, expressing his displeasure and noting that it was a response to the disrespect shown by Shelton both on court and before the match. The two could meet in the fourth round of the Australian Open.
During a press conference, Djokovic stated: "It was a reaction against him. He did not behave correctly, with respect, neither on the court nor before the match. I think we all need to remember that respect is fundamental in our sport and if someone puts himself in the anti-sport zone, I will react."
Controversy arose when Ben Shelton imitated Djokovic's trademark celebration after winning a crucial point during their US Open match. Djokovic, known for his on-court fervor, explained that the imitation was not well received because of Shelton's previous attitude.
"While competition is an integral part of our sport, so is mutual respect. Before the match, during the warm-up, I felt that his behavior was not appropriate. And then, replicating his celebration after winning a point was simply a natural reaction to his lack of respect," Djokovic added.
The Serbian tennis player has been recognized for his dedication and passion on the court, but he is also aware of the importance of fair play and courtesy in professional tennis. Djokovic concluded, "I hope we can remember the importance of sportsmanship and respect in our sport. We are all here to compete, but also to respect each other."
Shelton's imitation and Djokovic's response have generated a debate in the tennis world, highlighting the relevance of sporting values and ethical conduct on the professional circuit.

Empezamos el #AustralianOpen con salseito. Djokovic comentó en L’Equipe sobre la celebración del teléfono de Shelton en el US Open. 🗣️ “Fue una reacción contra él. No se comportó correctamente, con respeto, sobre la pista. Si alguien se coloca en la zona antideportiva,…

Quentin Moynet
Quentin Moynet
@QuentinMoynet

Djokovic sur son imitation de la célébration de Shelton à l'US Open : "C'était une réaction contre lui, il ne s'est pas comporté correctement, avec respect, sur le court, et avant le match (...) Si quelqu'un se place dans la zone antisportive, je réagis." lequipe.fr/Tennis/Article…

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