Melo calls out Djokovic after mixed doubles loss: "Surprised me but on a negative way, there was no need for that"
ATPThursday, 29 July 2021 at 10:37
Former doubles world No.1 Marcelo Melo wasn't happy with Novak Djokovic's behaviour during their mixed doubles tie at the Tokyo Olympic Games.
Melo was playing with Luisa Stefani lost out to Djokovic and Nina Stojanovic who were teaming for the first time but called him out for unsportsmanlike behaviour post-match.
"Novak surprised me but in a negative way. There was no need for that. Two days ago he filmed himself speaking about Brazil and Brazilians, our energy, and now he is behaving this way," Melo said, as quoted on Sport Klub.
"He had a smash directly in my back which he didn't have to play that way. But OK, this is tennis and everybody is trying to play it the way he wants. Me personally would never play that way."
"There are things I can't understand. Why? We did nothing to him to deserve that. In one moment he almost hit Luisa. Of course, these are Olympic Games, everything is happening on the court, he does what he does during points, but he should have some limits," added Melo.
"Some would wonder. I don't want to make controversies or start discussions but everyone who watched the match and is capable or reading between the lines knows what I'm talking about."
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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mandoist13-09-2026 - “The way I like to put it – no disrespect to anybody – is that this is her house, and all the other girls are just guests, and it’s time for them to go home” Well now... seems John Stacy has made a complete ass of himself. Doubt he'll be receiving any invitations to Lena's "house" any time soon.mandoist13-09-2026
- I am sorry, but Sabalenka has NO EXCUSE for her despicable behaviour. She lacks self and mouth control! The message is being sent but Saba isn't getting it! She is full of arrogance and pride. Hopefully, after this defeat she will be on the way to becoming a humble lady LIKE ELENA! I hope she never regains the world No. 1 until she develops some humility.Rapunzel13-09-2026
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- They probably have a very good reason for this. I do not get it. Annoying that it finishes so late
AceOfBase12-09-2026
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