Carlos Alcaraz stands between Djokovic and an eighth title at SW19.

Novak Djokovic and Lindsay Davenport (via Imago)

Novak Djokovic has received a lot of criticism following his outburst against the crowd for booing him during his infamous fourth-round match against Holger Rune at the 2024 Wimbledon Championships. However, former World No. 1 Lindsay Davenport has defended him, insisting that he has been treated unfairly.

The Serbian has been booed by the Wimbledon’s Centre Court crowd many times before. Notably, he faced the fans’ ire while playing against Roger Federer in 2019 and Cameron Norrie in 2022. While Rune is not the fan favorite at Wimbledon, he was surprisingly cheered on by hundreds of fans, who also booed his opponent Djokovic.

Djokovic was particularly hurt by the crowd’s behavior and hit back later in his press conference. American legend Davenport believes that the 37-year-old has been unfairly treated and painted as a villain despite all that he has achieved in the sport.
Novak Djokovic (Image via X)

I think he’s just had enough, I think it’s not easy to always be the villain out there. You’ve just had surgery, he’s out there, like really? He’s had it. Honestly, I don’t blame him and I think, you know, good for him. It’s just so odd because he does so much good as well off the court. He’s done amazing things. He’s gonna go down statistically — whether people like it or not — as the greatest player who’s ever lived, male or female. It’s insane when you look at all of his numbers.

Lindsay Davenport said on Tennis Channel’s podcast.

Djokovic, who is aiming to win a record-equalling eighth title at SW19, beat Lorenzo Musetti in straight sets to reach the final for the 10th time in his career.

Novak Djokovic’s physio applauds his tenacity to get back to fitness for Wimbledon

Novak Djokovic’s fast-paced recovery following his knee surgery a few weeks ago has been inspirational. Despite being expected to miss Wimbledon, he found a way to regain fitness and fight his way to the title match.

Jean-Georges Cellier, the physio Djokovic worked with, recently revealed that he has not seen any player as tenacious as the Serbian. He helped the 24-time Major winner’s postoperative rehabilitation process, getting him back into his best shape.
Novak Djokovic and Jean-Georges Cellier (Via Imago/X)

I have worked with a lot of great champions, but a man with so much will, I didn’t know that existed. With Novak (Djokovic), I entered another dimension. He has within him a unique power and inner strength.

Jean-Georges Cellier said via L’Equipe

Djokovic opened his campaign at Wimbledon after returning from injury beating Vit Kopriva in a straight set. He went on to defeat Jacob Fearnley and Alexei Popyrin in the second and third rounds respectively, before g getting a walkover from Alex de Minaur in the quarterfinals. He will face Carlos Alcaraz in the final, having beaten Lorenzo Musetti in straight sets in the semifinals.