1997 US Open runner-up Greg Rusedski thought it was absolutely unnecessary for the Australian Open crowd to boo Novak Djokovic when it was clear that he didn't feel like he could continue his semifinal match.
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Going into the Serb's semifinal match against Alexander Zverev, there were certain concerns about his fitness level and some wondered how it would look like if he decided to give the match a shot.
And on Friday, the 37-year-old went toe-to-toe with the German for an hour and 21 minutes.
But after Zverev sealed the first set 7-6 (5), Djokovic decided to retire due to a muscle tear injury in his upper left leg.
The crowd reacted very strongly, treating the record 10-time Australian Open winner with heavy boos as he was leaving the court.
In the past, the Serb won the Australian Open twice while playing through injuries - he battled an abdominal issue in 2021 and a muscle tear in 2023.
Rusedski on the crowd booing Djokovic: I just do not understand the lack of respect
"I just do not understand the lack of respect from the crowd who booed Novak when he retired from his semi. Novak has played through so many injuries in his career & just could not do it this time," the former world No. 4 wrote on X.
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"He is 37 years old & did not want to risk further injury. Smart decision."
Meanwhile, Djokovic also suggested in his presser that certain people should pause for a moment and think about what he has done at Melbourne Park since the start of his career.
I know how my body works, what I feel, and I know how much Ive given to this tournament in the past 20-plus years. I will stop here, so that I dont continue (speaking) in the wrong direction, the 37-year-old said.
