In the intense championship match of the US Open 2023, something extraordinary unfolded. Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev, two big names in tennis, faced off in a battle that was more than just a game. It was a showdown filled with tension and excitement, a battle that had so much riding on, with the Russian gunning for his second and the Serbian legend looking to lift his mind-blowing 24th major title. The most remarkable moment of the match came during a nail-biting tiebreaker in the second set.
But what made this clash even more unforgettable was a surprising twist. As the third set began, Medvedev took an unexpected tumble on the court, momentarily losing his footing.
A display of sportsmanship amidst the intensity of Medvedev vs. Djokovic clash
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As the third set began, something special happened on the court. Medvedev slipped and fell flat on the court. Djokovic, being a good sportsman, tried to help him by jumping over the net and offering his hand. But Medvedev wanted to stand up by himself. He refused Djokovic’s help and got up on his own. It was a nice moment of sportsmanship but a slight sign of what was being labelled as Medvedev’s arrogance.
Novak checks on Daniil after a hard fall 🤗
Things you love to see. pic.twitter.com/NR1HaasJp2
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 10, 2023
The refusal of assistance showcased the respect and competitive spirit that both players brought to the court. With this incident, it shows that both the players are reaching their physical capacity after a long and tedious second set win by Djokovic. Fans, however, had a different POV to this incident.
Fans reacting to the incident
When Medvedev slipped and refused Djokovic’s help, Twitter went wild with reactions. Some praised their competitive spirit, while others were skeptical, thinking Medvedev was trying to grab attention.
One fan exclaimed, “Medvedev waiving off Djokovic is the competitiveness I want to see lol #USOpen,” celebrating the sheer determination both players brought to the court.
Medvedev waiving off Djokovic is the competitiveness I want to see lol #USOpen
— Nita, CPA (@NitaTweetaBeata) September 10, 2023
However, not all tweets were filled with admiration. Another user remarked, “Bruhh he wanted more time on the ground. Clout chaserrrrrr,”
Bruhh he wanted more time on the ground. Clout chaserrrrrr https://t.co/Taqum1Yspx
— Djokovic won the US Open ✨🇷🇸 (@rybakovic23) September 10, 2023
One particularly critical tweet read, “He should have been hit with delay of game. Who lays there like that for so long,” raising questions about the duration of Medvedev’s on-court interlude.
He should have been hit with delay of game. Who lays there like that for so long.
— Greg (@HotBoyNY1) September 10, 2023
In contrast, a more empathetic voice chimed in, saying, “He just wanted more time…,” acknowledging the possibility of exhaustion as a factor in Medvedev’s decision.
He just wanted more time…
— Frank Malomar (@Fpl_AshMaster) September 10, 2023
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A fan called him a “Loser,”
Loser
— Firas Bayram (@Firas_Bayram) September 10, 2023
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However, this long break by Medvedev didn’t help as Novak Djokovic has defeated Daniil Medvedev in straight sets to lift his 24th Grand Slam.
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