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By Reuters 
September 8, 2020
NEW YORK – Novak Djokovic called for compassion for the linesman who struck the throat with a ball at the US Open on Monday after the official faced backlash from fans of the world’s number one on social media.
The Serbian was disqualified in the fourth round after he hit a reasonably hard ball down the court in frustration after losing serve in the first set against Spain’s Pablo Carreño Busta, sending the referee to the ground.
A section of Djokovic fans took to social media to insult the official after the Serbian media carried her Instagram username.
“What a shame. Old woman full of evil,” said one of the messages she left on her Instagram account, while other users accused her of faking the injury and “bad acting.”
Djokovic defended the official on Twitter on Tuesday, while thanking fans who had left him positive messages of support.
“Please also remember that the line person who was hit by the ball last night also needs the support of our community. He has done nothing wrong. I ask you to support and take special care of him during this time.
“From these moments, we become stronger and rise. Sharing love with everyone. Here I come Europe.”
Dear #NoleFam thanks for your positive messages. Please also remember that the linesman who was hit by the ball last night also needs the support of our community. She has done nothing wrong at all. I ask for your special support and care during this time. (1/2)
– Novak Djokovic (DjokerNole) September 7, 2020
With the linesman screaming in pain as he fell to the ground, a horrified Djokovic ran over to her and apologized.
This whole situation has left me really sad and empty. I checked the person on the lines and the tournament told me that thank God she was feeling fine. I’m so sorry that I caused you so much stress. So involuntary. So … https://t.co/UL4hWEirWL
– Novak Djokovic (DjokerNole) September 6, 2020
A tournament spokesman later told Reuters that the linesman appeared to be fine and was not moved off-site.
Tournament referee Soeren Friemel stepped out to Arthur Ashe Stadium and spoke with chair umpire Aurelie Tourte and Andreas Egli, the Grand Slam supervisor, before a lengthy chat with the three-time US Open winner.
Djokovic defended his case for 12 minutes, but the Grand Slam rules are clear and his fate was already sealed.
The Grand Slam rules state: “Players will not physically abuse at any time any official, opponent, spectator or other person within the tournament site.
“The referee, in consultation with the Grand Slam chief supervisors, may declare a foul for a single violation of this code.”
Reuters
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