Srinagar, Sep 7: The year 2020 can’t get any worse than this for World Number One Tennis player Novak Djokovic who on Sunday was disqualified from the US Open in fourth round for striking a line judge with a ball.
Djokovic was becoming frustrated after suffering a fall and having dropped serve to trail 5-6, he hit a ball reasonably hard to the back of the court, striking a female line judge above the shoulders.
He immediately went, apologised and stood over her as she appeared in distress on the floor.
Tournament referee Soeren Friemel then came out on to the Arthur Ashe Stadium and spoke to chair umpire Aurelie Tourte before a lengthy discussion with the 33-year-old.
The three-time U.S.Open winner was clearly making the point that he had not intended to hit the official but under the rules of tennis his fate was already sealed.
The Grand Slam rules state: “Players shall not at any time physically abuse any official, opponent, spectator or another person within the precincts of the tournament site.
Despite his pleadings, Djokovic was eventually disqualified before walking over to shake hands with a stunned Carreno Busta and trudging off to face the music.
It was sad end to the US Open journey this year for Djokovic who looked set to add to his grand slam collection.