Wimbledon 2023: Novak Djokovic has been fined $8,000 (£6,117) for smashing his racquet during the men’s singles final at Wimbledon. The Serbian saw red after losing his serve in the fifth set of his defeat to Carlos Alcaraz, taking out his frustration by smashing the racquet against the net post.
The incident occurred at the end of the ninth game of the fifth set, with Djokovic trailing 4-5. After missing a forehand opportunity, Djokovic threw his racquet to the ground in anger. The racquet bounced up and hit the net post, breaking into pieces.
Umpire Fergus Murphy immediately issued Djokovic with a warning for racquet abuse. The fine is the maximum that can be imposed for this offense.
Djokovic is no stranger to racquet abuse. He has been fined for the offense on several occasions throughout his career. In 2012, he was fined $10,000 for smashing his racquet at the Shanghai Masters.
Djokovic apologized for his actions after the match. “I was frustrated,” he said. “I lost my concentration for a moment, and I did something stupid.”
The fine will be deducted from Djokovic’s runner-up cheque of £1.175 million. However, it is unlikely to have a significant impact on his finances.
Also Read: MLC 2023: Adam Zampa’s 420 Jersey Number Sparks Speculation.
Djokovic’s fine is the latest in a series of disciplinary actions taken against players at Wimbledon this year. In the first week of the tournament, several players were fined for unsportsmanlike conduct, including code violations for audible obscenities and racket abuse.
The All-England Lawn Tennis Club has taken a tough stance on player behavior in recent years. The fines for racquet abuse have been increased, and players have been warned that they could be suspended for repeat offenses.
Djokovic’s fine is a reminder that even the best players in the world are not immune to disciplinary action.