Djokovic Disqualified from US Open, Apologizes for the Hit
Serbian world-favorite tennis pro Novak Djokovic has been disqualified from the US Open 2020 after accidentally hitting a line judge in frustration from the then ongoing fourth-round match. The video posted shows the accidental hit by Djokovic that hit the linewoman judge in the throat, leading to his immediate disqualification from the US Open 2020 tournament. As the sole tennis professional who was leading the tournament, this leaves the top wide open, according to a commentator for ABC News Australia.
After the US Open announced their decision for Djokovic on their own digital platforms, Djokovic posted an apology, publishing his regret about his recklessness that caused him to lose his position and ranking in the tournament.
The apology note posted in the caption read:
“This whole situation has left me really sad and empty. I checked on the lines person and the tournament told me that thank God she is feeling ok. I‘m extremely sorry to have caused her such stress. So unintended. So wrong. I’m not disclosing her name to respect her privacy. As for the disqualification, I need to go back within and work on my disappointment and turn this all into a lesson for my growth and evolution as a player and human being. I apologize to the @usopen tournament and everyone associated for my behavior. I’m very grateful to my team and family for being my rock support, and my fans for always being there with me. Thank you and I’m so sorry.”
This was followed by the same apology in his native Bosnian language.
Not only will Djokovic be losing all points earned at the tournament, he will also be fined the prize money won at the US Open in addition to any fines that will be imposed on the tennis player in regards to the offense, as stated by the tournament’s announcement.
Credit: Seth Wenig/AP Images
