XtraTime Web Desk: Top seed Novak Djokovic was defaulted from his fourth-round match at the US Open after he hit a line judge with a ball in anger on Sunday. The incident created a huge controversy as the Slovak’s bid for an 18th Grand Slam title came to an abrupt end following a 26-0 start to the season.
“In accordance with the Grand Slam rulebook, following his actions of intentionally hitting a ball dangerously or recklessly within the court or hitting a ball with negligent disregard of the consequences, the U.S. Open tournament referee defaulted Novak Djokovic from the 2020 U.S. Open,” the U.S. Tennis Association announced.
“Because he was defaulted,” the USTA statement continued, “Djokovic will lose all ranking points earned at the U.S. Open and will be fined the prize money won at the tournament in addition to any or all fines levied with respect to the offending incident.”
According to a USTA spokesperson, the line judge was treated by the Director of Player Medical Services and is “doing OK.”
With 2019 champion Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer opting out, Djokovic was the overwhelming favorite to win the title.
But it all came apart Saturday at Arthur Ashe Stadium, when Djokovic had just lost a game to his opponent, Pablo Carreno Busta, to fall behind 6-5 in the first set.
As he walked to the sideline for the changeover, Djokovic smacked a ball behind him. The ball hit a line judge, who dropped to her knees at the back of the court and reached for her neck.
Djokovic departed the site soon after the default and did not speak to reporters.