Novak Djokovic Couldn’t Get His Team’s Attention at Australian Open, and McEnroe Brothers Had Perfect Reaction
Novak Djokovic defeated Taylor Fritz in four sets in a quarterfinal match at the Australian Open on Tuesday, experiencing some moments of minor turbulence along the way.
One of those moments didn’t even occur on the court.
Djokovic was upset with his support team members about something and attempted to get their attention during a changeover, waving his arms and shouting, to no avail. The moment provided the perfect opportunity for ESPN commentators—and ex-players—John and Patrick McEnroe, who came prepared with the perfect reaction to the amusing scene.
As Djokovic waved to his team members like a man on the beach attempting to flag down his family, Patrick McEnroe deadpanned “You had one job!”
Novak Djokovic is upset with his team at the changeover.
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) January 23, 2024
He was having a hard time getting their attention.
Patrick McEnroe commentating: “You had one job!” ????
pic.twitter.com/BAQf68CvNZ
“Just stare at me and support me,” John McEnroe added brilliantly.
It’s not exactly clear what was upsetting Djokovic, who was already in a bad mood after failing to convert some break-point opportunities against Fritz.
Judging by the video, Djokovic was searching for something in particular, something that was clearly not in his bag, which then led to this very relatable interaction with his team.
Djokovic eventually defeated Fritz in four sets: 7-6 (7-3), 4-6, 6-2, 6-3. He will oppose the winner of the Jannik Sinner-Andrey Rublev match in the semifinals on Thursday in Melbourne.