Novak Djokovic takes a medical break between sets in Tuesday’s United Cup match between Serbia and the Czech Republic to tend to his injured wrist. When he called a timeout shortly after falling to Jiri Lehecka in the second set, it was met with disapproval from the gallery.
Earlier, Marketa Vondrousova gave Team Czech Republic the perfect start with a victory over Olga Danilovic in a match that both sides needed to win. In the second match of the tie, Lehecka faced Djokovic next.
In the opening set of the match, the Serb came out swinging and won 6-1. Even though it appeared like Team Serbia would win easily, the 22-year-old prevailed in a fierce tiebreak to win the second set. But in the third set, the World No. 1 prevailed 6-1, 6-7(3), 6-1, giving Team Serbia a crucial victory.
Djokovic took a medical time out following the second set. On social media, nevertheless, supporters believed that Lehecka’s rhythm was being broken by the World No. 1 during this prearranged stoppage.
In response to Djokovic’s actions, people reacted on X (previously Twitter). One supporter pointed out that the Serb frequently employed this strategy anytime he was in a close match:
He’s in a close fight, I see. Calling an injury time out would be wise. Shocked!!!”
Another admirer made reference to Djokovic’s habitual actions when they said that the Serbian player always calls a medical timeout when their opponent gets the upper hand in a game.
“So, Djokovic seems to, more often than not, take MTO when the momentum appears to shift in his opponent’s favour…”
Djokovic receiving treatment on his right wrist.
MTO between sets. pic.twitter.com/JYoLgmaPzH
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) January 2, 2024
