World No.1 Novak Djokovic was disqualified from the US Open 2020 after he struck the line judge with the ball during his fourth-round match against Pablo Carreno Busta on Sunday.

After being broken by his opponent at 5-5 in the first set, Djokovic couldn’t control his frustration as he accidentally hit the lineswoman on the neck.

Subsequently, the US Open officials couldn’t help but disqualify the 17-time Grand Slam champion from the tournament. Moreover, the USTA also announced that Djokovic will lose all the ranking points and prize money earned at the US Open 2020.

The tournament favorite was certainly dejected with his disqualification from the Grand Slam. He also skipped the official press conference for which he might be fined US $20,000. Nevertheless, Djokovic poured his heart out on social media.

Novak Djokovic issued a lengthy apology

“This whole situation has left me really sad and empty. I checked on the lines person and the tournament told me that thank God she is feeling ok. I’m extremely sorry to have caused her such stress. So unintended. So wrong,” wrote the World No.1.

“I’m not disclosing her name to respect her privacy. As for the disqualification, I need to go back within and work on my disappointment and turn this all into a lesson for my growth and evolution as a player and human being. I apologize to the US Open tournament and everyone associated for my behavior,” he added.

Novak further thanked his team, family, and fans for supporting him during these hard times.

The 33-year-old has faced numerous controversies in the past few months. He received a lot of criticism for hosting the Adria Tour during the pandemic which led to him and several other players testing COVD-19 positive.

Djokovic will definitely take lessons from these events and bounce back stronger.

Read More: “She Doesn’t Have To Go To The Hospital” – Novak Djokovic Fails to Apologise After Disqualification