The 24-time Grand Slam champion has been left frustrated by a rule change that was introduced earlier this year but has only impacted him for the first time this week
Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has voiced his dissatisfaction with the new automated shot clock system. He claims that the ATP altered the rules mid-season without notifying the players.
Since June, the ATP has been testing a system where the 25-second countdown to serve starts precisely three seconds after the last point, a change from the previous system where umpires had discretion over when to start the shot clock.
However, as Djokovic hasn’t participated in an ATP-sanctioned event since May, the Shanghai Masters is his first encounter with the new system – and he’s not impressed.
The world No. 4 initially expressed his discontent when he was given a time violation during his opening match against Alex Michelsen, with chair umpire Mohamed Lahyani explaining that he no longer had control over the shot clock.
Djokovic aired his grievances again on Wednesday during his last 16 match against Roman Safiullin. He seemed to question Nacho Forcadell, the chair official for the match, about the rule.
Djokovic encountered the new rules for the first time
“It’s automatic, three seconds, Novak,” the umpire responded. Djokovic then launched into a passionate tirade, also mentioning another recent rule change – ball kids are now permitted to hand towels to players, a practice that was halted four years ago.
“No, I get it. I get it’s not up to you. But the rule change is unbelievable,” he exclaimed.
“I mean for four years we’ve had this situation where we can’t get the towel, right? Ball kids are doing their best but they’re not being trained. Without even notifying any players, you start this new rule. I mean, it’s incredible. Honestly.”
At the subsequent changeover, he sought more information regarding the automated shot clock from Forcadell. “First time that you are having this situation, right?” inquired Djokovic.
“No, we already had it. I think we started grass season,” responded the umpire. The Serbian star seemed taken aback, questioning, “Grass season? ATP? ” before receiving confirmation that the automation was introduced at tour events, but not at Grand Slam or ITF tournaments.
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