Novak Djokovic is once again dominating the headlines. But, this time, it is not for breaking records. His habit of taking breaks in between matches has again come under intense scrutiny after an enthralling encounter with Jannik Sinner in the ATP Finals. It’s one of the habits that Djokovic has picked up as he takes breaks for medical reasons or uses the bathroom whenever he seems to be losing a match or a set during the match. Tennis fans now recognize this trait of his and continue to criticize him for it. But today it’s not just the fans who were offended.

An iconic name in the world of tennis has joined the conversation as he bashed the Serbian down. It was none other than the Italian tennis legend, Adriano Panatta.

Adriano Panatta slams down Novak Djokovic on his attitude at the ATP Finals

Last night, world number 1, Novak Djokovic, played his 2nd group stage match at the ATP Finals against Jannik Sinner. Despite playing one of the best matches in the tournament, it was his behavior in the match that took the spotlight. Djokovic took a very long bathroom break and also called for medical assistance in between sets. This has become a common sight in matches involving the world No.1 of late.

Although the Serb’s advancing years might be playing a part in the frequent breaks that we’re seeing in his matches, the Italian tennis veteran didn’t feel the same way. After watching his compatriot’s rhythm being disturbed by Djokovic’s bathroom break, Panatta lashed out at the 24-time Grand Slam champion. He brought the example of his archrivals, Federer and Nadal, to criticize his behavior.

Panatta commented as per RAI Station, reported by Match Tenis, “Have you seen Federer or Nadal behave the same way as Djokovic tonight? I would bet anything that he would try to break the rhythm of the game, he always does. First the bath, then the physical therapy. He tries everything. I don’t like that attitude at all, thank God Sinner doesn’t care, he stays there calmly” (Google Translate).

Moreover, it was not just the breaks that set Panatta and other fans off, but also the symphony Djokovic had going on that resonated with the booing of the crowd.

Djokovic started syncing in with the booing of the crowd with a rhythm of his own

After Djokovic was close to winning the second set, the local crowd starting showing their displeasure towards the Serb. However, this did not make him angry. In fact, he started provoking the crowd. This only made them angrier, and more people started booing even louder.

This was not the only time this behavior has irked everyone. In the Paris Masters, Djokovic took a medical time-out to treat a back issue during his match against Andrey Rublev in the semifinals. Subsequently, he was booed by the French crowd. He had started gesturing toward the crowd to boo more and louder. As the booing echoed throughout the arena, he started to showcase his incredible skills as he won the match without losing a point. It almost looks as if the booing and negative feedback reinforces his confidence even more.

What do you think? Does Djokovic thrive in a negative environment?

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