Djokovic criticises chair umpire in Serena Williams saga

Novak Djokovic has spoken out about the Serena Williams controversy, saying the chair umpire ‘changed the course of the match’.

In the aftermath of his US Open triumph, Djokovic was asked to weigh in on the controversial events that took place in the women’s final.

The Serb criticised chair umpire Carlos Ramos for ‘pushing Serena to the limit’.

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“I have my personal opinion, maybe the chair umpire shouldn’t have pushed Serena to the limit, especially in a grand slam final,” Djokovic said.

“He did change the course of the match.

“We all go through our emotions, especially when you’re fighting for a grand slam trophy.

“I felt for Serena. A tough thing for chair umpire to deal with. Awkward situation.”

However Djokovic said he didn’t agree with WTA chief Steve Simon that Ramos’ actions were sexist.

Simon issued a stunning statement on Monday backing Serena’s claim that sexism played a role in the code violations that sparked her meltdown.

Williams was handed three code violations — and docked a point and then a game — in her 6-2, 6-4 loss to Naomi Osaka in the Flushing Meadows final.

“Yesterday also brought to the forefront the question of whether different standards are applied to men and women in the officiating of matches,” Simon said in a statement.

“The WTA believes that there should be no difference in the standards of tolerance provided to the emotions expressed by men vs. women and is committed to working with the sport to ensure that all players are treated the same.

“We do not believe that this was done last night.”

Williams was most incensed by the first code violation she received — for coaching from her box.

It’s not clear if she even saw the hand gestures by coach Patrick Mouratoglou sitting her box, and Simons said the sport as a whole should examine the rules on coaching.

“We also think the issue of coaching needs to be addressed and should be allowed across the sport,” he said.

“The WTA supports coaching through its on-court coaching rule, but further review is needed.

“Yesterday’s match showcased one of tennis’ new stars as well as one of the greatest players of the game,” Simon concluded.

“We look forward to more thrilling matches between these great athletes and hope that what we all witnessed yesterday never happens again.”

Juan Martin del Potro also expressed his sorrow for Serena after his loss to Djokovic.

“I was sad for Serena because she’s a great champion,” del Potro said.

“She gives to this sport a lot, but Naomi deserved to win. She’s a great champion.

“Of course the final was not the final that everybody expected. I agree that the girls have to be treated the same as the men, win the same money.

“They made a big effort to play these kind of tournaments and they deserve to be treated the same as we are.

“Basically, Serena is one of the greatest players in history. I wish her all the best because she’s so nice. We want to keep watching her.”

with AFP