“The Rule is the Rule”: Billie Jean King Sends a Message to Novak Djokovic After US Open 2020 Disqualification

World No.1 Novak Djokovic saw his bid for a record 18th Grand Slam title end in the most unusual way at the US Open 2020. Djokovic was facing Spain’s Pablo Carreño Busta in the fourth round at Flushing Meadows.

At 5-5 in the first set, Djokovic began serving. However, he fell on the court at 0-30 down – feeling pain in his left shoulder. The Serb resumed play after receiving medical treatment.

Busta won the next point to get three points off Djokovic’s serve. Subsequently, he broke the No.1 seed on the second breakpoint.

Djokovic, who looked visibly frustrated, took out a spare ball from his pocket and hit at the back of the court in frustration. Unfortunately for him, the ball ended up hitting the lines-woman’s throat. She fell down immediately and Djokovic rushed in to check on her condition.

The 17-time Grand Slam champion pleaded to the tournament referee, Soeren Friemel, at the net. Djokovic apologized for his actions – explaining how they were completely unintentional. The chair umpire, Grand Slam supervisor, and the tournament referee discussed the matter before disqualifying Djokovic from the US Open 2020.

The former World No.1 Billie Jean King took to Twitter to express her thoughts on this raging issue. The American showed her concern for the lines judge and called the entire episode unfortunate.

“First I hope the line judge is okay. The rule is the rule. It is unfortunate for everyone involved, but in this specific situation the default was the right call,” said Billie Jean King on the social networking site.

USTA issues statement over Novak Djokovic and his actions

The USTA issued a statement – clarifying that Friemel defaulted Djokovic in accordance with the rules. Further, it added that Djokovic would have to forfeit the ranking points and $250,000 in prize money that he earned at the tournament.

The 3-time US Open champion Djokovic issued an apology on Instagram, reflecting on his actions and disqualification from the US Open 2020.