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“Violated The Rules”: USTA CEO Backs US Open 2020 Over Novak Djokovic Disqualification

Published 09/07/2020, 2:14 PM EDT

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The whole world seems to be talking about the dramatic exit of Novak Djokovic from the 2020 US Open. The Serb lost control of his feelings after he was broken in the first set, and vented his frustration by accidentally hitting a lineswoman with the ball. 

The matter got extremely serious when the official, who took the hit went to the ground, holding her throat in pain. This prompted the chair umpire to hold a long discussion about Novak’s fate in the game. 

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The officials stuck to the rules after holding an extensive discussion. They defaulted Novak Djokovic from the game, which meant that he could no longer carry on with his R16 game against Pablo Carreno Busta

Following this sensational incident, everyone affliated to the tennis community began registering their opinion on the matter. Likewise, Michael Dowse, CEO and Executive Director of the USTA commented on Djokovic’s disqualification. 

Dowse mentioned how he was watching the game on television and instantly turned up the volume upon looking at the incident. “Our first concern was the health of our lines judge,” Dowse said. “At that point, it became very clear. It was black and white. Unfortunately, Novak had violated the rules of the Grand Slam book,” he added. 

The officials took the time to hear Novak Djokovic plead his case and then made the final decision. Dowse stated his complete support to the officials lauding them for making the correct decision. 

Boris Becker comments on Novak Djokovic losing his temper 

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Tennis legend Boris Becker was formerly coaching Novak Djokovic before the pair split in 2016. Boris, just like everyone, watched the Djoker getting eliminated from the 2020 US Open due to his ill-tempered actions. Of course, the Serb did not commit it intentionally. However, it has cost him a place in the grand slam and most importantly, shattered his winning streak. 

Becker tried to assess Novak’s mindset after the loss. “Djokovic received a lesson in front of everyone and I think he will learn from it to come back stronger,” Becker said.

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The rule is very clear: if you hit someone, especially a referee, voluntarily or involuntarily, you are eliminated. And I don’t think that rule will change from this precedent,” he further added.

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via Reuters

With his US Open hopes taken away, one can certainly expect Djokovic to come back stronger in the 2020 French Open. He’s a tremendous athlete and we’ve seen him overcome obstacles in the past. Thus, it is only a matter of time before he recoups his confidence. 

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Written by:

Arjun Athreya

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Arjun Athreya is a senior writer at Essentially Sports and has been contributing since early 2020. Having developed an avid interest in sports at an early age, he pursued a Journalism degree and graduated from Madras Christian College. Arjun manages the Golf division and its content, and primarily covers news pertaining to the NBA as well.
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