CNN
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Novak Djokovic’s I won in straight sets against Cameron Norrie Italian Open When the British tennis star smashed the back of the leg of the world No.1.
The event took place at the beginning Second set And despite an immediate apology from Nouri, Djokovic didn’t take kindly to it, and continued to stare down his opponent.
The staredown from Djokovic continued towards the net before the British No 1 offered a verbal rebuttal.
“Maybe you could say he didn’t hit me on purpose,” Djokovic told reporters after his 6-3 6-4 win in the round of 16.
“I don’t know if he saw me. I mean… you can always see where the player is standing on the court.
Djokovic added that he was not at all impressed with Nuri’s behavior in general throughout the match.
“It probably wasn’t so much about him, but it was probably a combination of things,” Djokovic, 35, said.
“He was doing all the things we’re allowed to do. He’s allowed to take a medical timeout. He’s allowed to hit a player. He’s basically saying ‘come on’ every single point since the first game.” is allowed.
“These are things that we players know in the locker room that it’s not fair play, it’s not how we treat each other. But, again, it’s allowed.”
However, Djokovic did not let his unhappiness with Nouri affect his form on court as he eased into the quarter-finals of the Italian Open.
“He brought the fire, and I responded to it. I’m not going to allow anyone to just hang their head and behave like that. I’m going to respond to that,” the 22-time Grand Slam winner added. .
“I’ve been great with Cameron all these years that he’s been on tour. Practiced with each other. He’s a great guy off the court, so I don’t understand that kind of behavior on the court, really. Ask.
A representative for Nouri told CNN that the world No. 13 had no comment on Djokovic’s post-match remarks.