Novak Djokovic has expressed his frustration at the 'disrespectful' Wimbledon crowd following his victory over Holger Rune.
The victory secured his place in this year's championship quarter-finals. However, he was visibly upset with the crowd's behaviour during Monday's last 16 clash on Centre Court.
The Danish fans present were heard loudly supporting Rune, a scenario that Master of Ceremonies Rishi Pershad had predicted, much to Djokovic's chagrin.
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“I’m very pleased. I don’t think he has played anywhere close to his best to be honest. It was a tough start for him. He lost the first 12 points and I think that got to him mentally," he said on court afterwards
"Waiting all day to come out on the court is never easy. The tension is building up and stressed to get out on the court. On my end I think I‘ve done things at the important moments.
"Things could have looked different if I lost those services games but very solid at the end and I’m very happy to get through in straight sets.
"To all the fans that have had respect and stayed here tonight, I think you from the bottom of my heart and I appreciate it. And to all those people that have chosen to disrespect the player (in this case me) have a goooooooood night."
Master of ceremonies Persad then stepped in to say: "I am hoping they were just commenting on Rune, and they were not disrespecting you."
But Djokovic responded: "They were. They were. I am not accepting it. No no no. I know they were cheering for Rune but that’s an excuse to also boo.
"Listen, I have been on the tour for more than 20 years. I know all the tricks. I focus on the respectful people that pay for the ticket, and love tennis and appreciate the players. I played in much more hostile environments, trust me – you guys can’t touch me.
"I’m feeling great on the court and let’s take it day by day. There’s always something to work on in the off days. I’ll speak with my team tomorrow and analyse this match and get ready for the next one.
"I’m feeling good, I played Alex a few times on different surfaces but this is the first time on grass, He’s one of the fittest guys on the tour. I’ll have to do a lot of running. I’m enjoying my running at 37-years-old."
Djokovic beat Rune 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in straight sets to reach the last eight for the seventh successive time, where he will face Alex De Minaur. Praising Djokovic, three-time Wimbledon champion John McEnroe said: "Djokovic is the guy that’s taken it to Rune from the moment he’s stepped on the court, and despite the fact he’s beaten him twice, it didn't look like Rune had the belief he could do it here.
"I actually feel he’s is playing great. He’s looking like Novak Djokovic to me. Arguably the weakest part of Rune’s game is his return. He looks bewildered out there."
