US Open umpire disqualifies Djokovic after hitting line’s judge with ball

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

 

Men’s tennis world no.1 is out of the US Open.

After dropping his service to lose the set, the Serbian fired a blank ball in frustration and unfortunately hit the line’s judge stationing behind.

The official was hit by the ball near the throat and fell, gasping for air and showed difficulty in breathing that stunned the venue including the umpire.

Afterward, when the situation dispersed and the line’s judge claimed she was already okay, Djokovic and the umpire had a heated discussion that turned out to be his worst nightmare.

The umpire decided to disqualify the world no.1 and declared Pablo Carreno Busta as the winner by default.

Following the decision, Djokovic immediately shook the hands of Busta, ignored the umpire and all the reporters heading outside the venue.

“I was celebrating the break with my coach. When I heard that the line judge was on the floor I was in shock. I never expected this moment when playing Novak. I think it was bad luck,” Busta said.

Under the rules of the United States Tennis Association, Djokovic has been tossed out for “intentionally hitting a ball dangerously or recklessly within the court or hitting a ball with negligent disregard of the consequences.”