‘If he doesn’t remember’ – Rune left surprised at Novak Djokovic reaction to boo-like chant as ‘we’ve played many times’
HOLGER RUNE claims that Novak Djokovic must not have “remembered” that crowds often like to chant his name in a boo-sounding way.
The Dane, 21, was blown away by Djokovic on Centre Court last night.
During the 6-3 6-4 6-2 dismantling, the crowd tried to get behind the underdog, by chanting “Ruuuune”.
After the contest, Djokovic took a swipe at fans using the chant as a way to “boo” him – despite interviewer Rishi Persad trying to explain to the contrary.
Following the Serbian’s rant, Rune gave his perspective on the controversy.
Asked about it in his post-match press conference, he said: “It all started in the US Open the first time we played each other when I was 18 or something.
“They were shouting my name, Rune. It sounded a little bit like ‘boo’.
“We played each other many more times, but more in like Italy and France, where they don’t pronounce my name the same way. Now we’re in England.
“If you don’t know what was happening, probably it sounded like ‘boo’. But if we all know what happened, it was my name.
“Obviously he’s played so many matches since he played me last time. If he didn’t remember, it could probably sound different for him. I don’t think it played a massive part in the match.
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“He was just better than me today. Whether the crowd was this or that, I think was great support for both players, to be honest.
“They were supporting him on good points. They were supporting me. Nice scenes out there on Centre Court.”
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Seven-time Wimbledon champion Djokovic had ranted at rowdy punters: “To all the fans that have respect and stayed tonight, thank you from the bottom of my heart, I appreciate it.
“To all those people that have chosen to disrespect play and one player, in this case me, have a GOOOD-night. A GOOOD-night. A very good night.
“They were disrespecting me. I don’t accept it, no, no, no. I know they were cheering for Rune but that is also an excuse to boo.
“Listen, I have been on the tour for more than 20 years. So trust me, I know all the tricks, I know how it works.”
Next up, Djokovic will face Aussie Alex de Minaur – who wants to be an “honorary Brit” for the occasion – with the home nation not having anyone left in the singles events.
Following his four-set win over Arthur Fils, De Minaur, who dates British No1 Katie Boulter, said: “Oh, 100 per cent. I’ll take all the support I can get.
“I can be the honorary Brit here at Wimbledon. I’ll take all the support I can get.”
The quarter-final match is set to take place tomorrow, almost certainly on Centre Court.
