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Despite being embroiled in many controversies, Novak Djokovic ‘came, saw, and conquered’ every tennis court in Melbourne to clinch his 10th Australian Open title. It was not just controversial issues that were troubling the Serbian tennis star. Even the fear of his left hamstring injury was looming over him during the event. However, he somehow managed to outclass almost every top-seed in the tournament.

Taking note of all this, the entire tennis community is lavishly praising him following his record-equaling Grand Slam win. But some are still suspicious of the 35-year-old’s injury woes as they claim that he faked it to win the major title. One such name is the Italian tennis legend, Adriano Panatta, who has called into question Djokovic’s hamstring issues while also criticizing him. Surprisingly, those ‘disrespectful’ comments came to light after Adriano’s recent interview in which he lauded the Swiss Maestro Roger Federer.

Adriano Panatta slams Novak Djokovic after his Australian Open triumph

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The former tennis player, who is now working as a commentator, previously showered praise on Roger Federer. In an interview with the Italy Magazine, Adriano Panatta said that “Everything has changed” after the 20-time singles Grand Slam champion put down his racket in the previous season. However, when it comes to another tennis great, Novak Djokovic, the Italian has totally different opinion of him.

READ MORE- Novak Djokovic Introduces ‘Cringey Joker Dance’ to the Australian Crowd After Flexing Spiderman-Like Stunt Against Nick Kyrgios

Talking about his Australian Open run, Panatta slammed the Serb by saying that he likes to distract his opponents. Further criticism was thrown by the 1976 French Open champion as he claimed that Djokovic faked his injury during the tournament.

The tennis community also took note of Panetta’s remarks about the 35 years old. Notably, one of the fans stated, “Adriano Panatta, Italian tennis legend (won RG 1976), is talking on Rai2 about Djokovic’s AO win. First things said: • “He likes to distract his opponents” • “Crying like this is not okay” • “He faked the injury”.”

The fan further expressed his disappointment towards those ‘disrespectful’ comments about one of the greatest tennis players. He said, As much as my opinion counts, I disagree and I’m tired of this”.

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Adriano previously criticized another ATP player

The American tennis player Frances Tiafoe has also been a target of sharp criticism from the Italian tennis legend. During the Davis Cup, he was spotted wearing his headphones while his country’s national anthem was being played.

In light of that incident, Panatta slammed the American for his “rude” attitude toward his team. He further said that “he would kick him in the b*tt” if he was the captain of the US team.

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WATCH THIS STORY – Hilarious Meaning of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Serena Williams on Urban Dictionary! 

What do you think of Adriano’s criticism of players like Tiafoe and Djokovic? Let us know in the comments section.