Novak Djokovic has leapt to the defence of Serena Williams in the wake of widespread backlash over the American tennis legend’s first round defeat at Wimbledon. Williams snubbed the media after suffering a shock loss to Australia’s Maya Joint, going down 6-3 6-7 (6-8) 6-3 in her first grand slam match in four years.
There were suggestions Williams could cop a fine of US$50,000 (about AU$72,000) for failing to attend the obligatory post-match press conference. But the 23-time major winner later revealed that she cancelled her media commitments due to a knee injury sustained during the first set of the match.
Novak Djokovic (L) has urged critics of Serena Williams (R) to back off after the American’s first-round loss to Maya Joint (centre) at Wimbledon sparked widespread backlash. Pic: Getty
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“I’m incredibly thankful for the wildcard – and even more grateful my daughters got to see that it’s never too late to chase something you love,” Williams posted on social media. “I tweaked my knee late in the first set, but I’ll be doing everything I can to be ready for doubles with (sister) Venus. Congratulations to Maya Joint on a great match, and thank you to everyone who showed up and showed me so much love. That feeling will never get old.”
Nevertheless, Williams’ sportsmanship has been thrown into question after the disappointing defeat. The American only offered her Aussie opponent a quick handshake without any message of congratulations. And the decision to hand the 44-year-old a wildcard instead of an up-and-coming star was also panned by critics.
Novak Djokovic urges Serena Williams critics to back off
But Djokovic jumped to the defence of the 44-year-old after his straight-sets victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second round at Wimbledon. And the 24-time major winner urged detractors to take into account the circumstances around Williams’ fairytale return – and her legendary status in the sport – before passing judgement.
“What she’s doing is incredible, it’s epic,” Djokovic said. “I’ve always been a fan of Serena. Knowing how competitive she is, with the mind of a champion, she’s not happy just showing up. She wants to win.”
He added: “She’s 44, she has two children, and she hasn’t played a match in so many years. It’s normal that she’s still not at her best in terms of movement. People need to cool off a little with the judgment and the criticism.”
Serena Williams has come under fire after a shock first round loss to Maya Joint in her return to Wimbledon. Pic: Getty
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The 39-year-old believes fans should be grateful to have another opportunity to see Williams in action again, rather than criticise her first round loss or actions in the aftermath. “Just enjoy the greatness of who she is and what she represents to the sport,” he added. “You have the greatest ever coming to play, bringing more attention to your sport. I don’t understand that kind of thinking and judgment.”
And while he’s not sure what the future holds for the 44-year-old mother-of-two, Djokovic reckons another appearance at this year’s US Open would hold obvious appeal. “Playing at home would be amazing, for her and for everyone else,” Djokovic insisted. “I really support Serena, always have, and hopefully she’s going to play more.”
with agencies