Novak Djokovic screamed at the chair umpire before walking off the court in an angry outburst at the Italian Open on Tuesday.
The World No.1 completely lost his cool as rain in Rome held up his second-round match against Taylor Fritz.
The Serbian, back in action after sitting out the Madrid Open last week, had taken the opening set 6-3 before moving a break ahead in the second to lead 5-4.
But Djokovic was left furious when he failed to serve out the match as Fritz rallied to level at 5-5.
Djokovic vented at the chair umpire that he hadn’t suspended play yet as rain lashed the court.
“How much more do you want to play?” Djokovic screamed at the umpire.
“I asked you three times, you are not checking anything.”
Djokovic then stormed into the court-side tunnel to escape the rain before the match was finally suspended.
Fans watching the action were highly critical of Djokovic’s outburst, with some describing his treatment of the umpire as “unacceptable” and “disgusting”.
That outburst by Djokovic is unacceptable, other players would have had a warning ! He should be ashamed of himself. Taylor deserves to win
— Lou Lou (@InglisLou) May 11, 2021
