Novak Djokovic has admitted he was “hurt” by the absence of his father at the Australian Open final on Sunday night.
The Serbian superstar and his team decided that it would be best for Srdjan Djokovic to not be courtside at Rod Laver Arena following a controversy over a Russian flag which threatened to overshadow Djokovic’s campaign for a 10th Australian Open title.
Srdjan Djokovic was therefore watching from outside the stadium as his son defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets 6-3 7-6 7-6.
A seat next to Djokovic’s mother, usually occupied by Srdjan, was empty as Djokovic won a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam title.
“We both agreed that it would probably be better that he’s not there,” Djokovic said after winning a 10th Australian Open title.
