Novak Djokovic faced boos from the Roland-Garros crowd as he was accused of disrespecting Rafael Nadal with a rude gesture during their match at the Paris Olympics.
Djokovic secured a 6-1, 6-4 victory over Nadal on Monday in what was another heated chapter in their storied rivalry.
The Serbian star dominated the first set and seemed poised for a swift victory, winning four consecutive games to lead 6-1, 4-0.
However, the French crowd, known for their adoration of Nadal due to his exceptional French Open record, grew more vocal in their support for the Spaniard. This support intensified as Nadal mounted a comeback, winning four games in a row to level the second set at 4-4.
Djokovic, who has often struggled to win over crowds compared to Nadal, reacted to the cheering by securing a crucial break in the ninth game of the second set.
Afterward, he turned to the audience and pointed to his ears, a move that was met with a chorus of boos from the packed Philippe Chatrier stadium.
Social media users quickly condemned Djokovic’s actions, with many labeling it as classless, especially considering Nadal’s injury concerns entering the match.
“Take your hand off your ear and be respectful to a legend,” posted one user on X, while another commented, “This is exactly why people don’t like him! Rafa was going to be an easy win for him! Be the bigger person and show some class!”
Nadal, who will now focus on doubles with Carlos Alcaraz, did not respond directly to Djokovic’s gesture.
