French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic celebration gets mixed reaction – ‘Not quite sure what the boos are about’

Novak Djokovic was at his commanding best in his pretty one-sided first-round match against Aleksandar Kovacevic at the 2023 French Open on Monday – and he got fired up too.

After securing a crucial break of serve in the third set to lead 4-3 in the Paris sunshine, a fired-up Djokovic cupped his ear and then punched the air before making his way over to his chair for the changeover.

The animated celebration divided the fans with some cheering and also very audible boos mixed in for good measure as the Serb marked what was a very important moment in the match with understandable delight.

Eurosport commentator Simon Reed was left baffled as he remarked: “Magnificent from Djokovic!

“I’m not quite sure what the boos are all about – he is allowed to celebrate like that after a shot like that.

“Despite all that he has achieved, Djokovic with his 22 Grand Slams and his two titles here, he has never won over the French crowd that much.

“They have always been for Rafa and for Roger, but not necessarily delirious about Novak.

“I’m surprised about the reaction to that particular point because it was staggeringly good from Djokovic.”

Former pro Miles Maclagan added by way of his appreciation: “What a point to get.”

Djokovic only required three sets to close out a very impressive victory as he came through the encounter 6-3 6-2 7-6(1).

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