Andy Roddick Criticizes Himself Over Emma Navarro and Danielle Collins’ Olympic Controversies: ‘Got Into People’s Business Many Times’

Andy Roddick is a household name when it comes to discussing heated confrontations. Only this time, although the narrative is the same, the players are different. Several WTA tennis players found themselves embroiled in controversies at the Paris Olympics. The quadrennial event showcased phenomenal performances. However, Qinwen Zheng, Emma Navarro, Iga Swiatek, and Danielle Collins had to face some challenging on-court issues. While the tennis world has turned these feuds upside down, Roddick has also stepped up to give his take on the mishaps.

The former American tennis pro is more than acquainted with how intense clashes can abruptly turn around and present a problematic situation. Roddick himself indulged in many on-court dramas during his career. Naturally, he is in a fitting position to analyze how a crucial defeat can bring the worst out of just anybody. Subsequently, he gave a healthy outlook on what can be expected from these players in the future!

While talking on his ‘Served With Andy Roddick‘ podcast on August 13, the 41-year-old highlighted that his career witnessed some grueling controversies. This, in particular, prompted Roddick to state that players’ overwhelming emotions are just that, emotions. Once they step off the court and find their composure, they let bygones be bygones. Moreover, at times, they repent their misbehavior that led to such nasty controversies. Ultimately, they turn over a new leaf and implore themselves with healthy reasoning.

He said, “I’ll tell you this, I got into people’s business many times on the court and I would say that 95 percent of those didn’t have a history past that day or night. We’re gonna yell at each other, gonna be annoyed at things. Danielle got into it with Iga. I’d be shocked if three weeks from now they’re not fine.”

For the unversed, Paris Olympics gold medalist Qinzen Zheng found herself in a nasty post-match exchange with rival Emma Navarro. Notably, the American called out the 21-year-old for her “cut-throat” behavior. Navarro also made some damning statements towards the Chinese during their customary handshake, which were later revealed by the young talent in a post-match presser.

Iga Swiatek and Danielle Collins also made it to the controversial highlights of the Games. The duo engaged in a nerve-racking showdown, the aftermath of which saw the American express her condemnation of eventual bronze medalist Swiatek. After a series of events that somewhat hampered their contest, the 30-year-old pulled out of the duel at the last minute and gave the Polish star a run-down on her apparent ‘fake’ on-court demeanor. Furthermore, while talking to the reporters, Swiatek voiced her take on the situation after Collins revealed her candid admission to the Pole.

Meanwhile, while staying on the subject, this wasn’t the end of Roddick’s comments. The American also touched on his 2008 US Open controversy with Serbian giant Novak Djokovic that left him in shambles.

Andy Roddick to date gets ‘smoked’ by Novak Djokovic fans for their heated confrontation

The year 2008 was a different era in tennis. Roger Federer was the man to beat. Andy Roddick was still struggling to clinch his second Grand Slam title. Although Novak Djokovic wasn’t unknown to the sport, his notorious on-court antics fetched him a colorful image. Subsequently, Nole and Roddick locked horns at the 2008 US Open. After a grueling four-set quarterfinal showdown, Djokovic emerged victorious. However, things quickly went south.

The American engaged in an unpleasant locker room confrontation with the former World no. 1, reportedly sticking him against the metal lockers in the changing room before they were intervened by the Serb’s trainer. Though Roddick has emphatically expressed his regret for his misdemeanor, Djokovic fans still grill the 41-year-old for his behavior. This was voiced by Roddick in his podcast. “We mentioned Novak. I still get smoked by his fans for something that happened 16 years ago that we talked about that night and let go.”

Although the duo has set aside their past troubles, tennis missed Djokovic and Roddick battling it out on the court. If the American ever wishes to make reparations with his fans, he can always explore the possibility of taking on the Serb for a friendly encounter and with it, provide them with a lively experience!