Novak Djokovic lost his temper and told a rowdy spectator to “shut up” during his loss to Casper Ruud in the semi-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters.
The visibly angry world number one was knocked out of the tournament after a 6-4, 1-6, 6-4 loss to 10th-ranked Ruud on Saturday night as his struggles in 2024 continued.
It was Ruud’s first victory over the 24-time Grand Slam title winner in his six attempts, with Djokovic losing in the deciding set and expressing frustration.
Djokovic was caught on camera turning to a spectator and letting out a series of expletives, apparently furious at the noise emanating from the stands.
Having missed a simple forehand while trailing 3-4, Djokovic, standing on the cusp of another backhand, spun before turning his attention to the rowdy individual.
Novak Djokovic lost his temper with a spectator during his loss to Casper Ruud in Monte Carlo
The world number one yelled at the troublemaker to “shut up” during the deciding set.
‘Would you please shut the hell up?’ She shouted before muttering under her breath.
A video on YouTube apparently showed the viewer being evicted from the scene.
Djokovic had struggled in the early stages of the match and lost two of his first three service games, and Ruud took the first set in decisive fashion.
However, the 36-year-old responded in style and took the second set to take the contest the distance and set up what turned out to be a decisive and exciting set.
But Djokovic double-faulted on Ruud’s match point to condemn himself to defeat.
After yelling, Djokovic was also caught on camera muttering profanities under his breath.
Djokovic is looking for his first title this year and admitted that he is not having a ‘great season’
“Surely there are positive things to take away, but I’m used to a very high level in terms of expectations and results,” he admitted.
“Not having a title, compared to the last 15 years, is not a great season at all.”
Djokovic’s elimination came after his third-round knockout at Indian Wells and a semifinal loss at the Australian Open. He is still looking for his first title of the year.
“I had semi-finals in Australia and semi-finals here,” he added. “It’s normal to expect that you’ll have some seasons where you don’t start well; this is the one.
‘I hope I can answer. In terms of results, I can build from here.