Novak Djokovic admitted he was ‘really upset’ by the lack of communication over a deviation in the rules between the Western & Southern Open and the US Open.
Djokovic, the world No. 1 from Serbia, thumped Damir Dzumhur 6-1 6-4 6-1 to book a second-round clash against Birtain’s Kyle Edmund on Monday night in New York.
While it was a relatively straightforward win, there were a few moments of frustration for the 17-time Grand Slam champion – one of which was borne out of confusion over the application of a rule.
In comparison to last week’s Western & Southern Open, chair umpires are starting the 25-second countdown for the serve clock quicker.
Djokovic asked Damien Dumusois: ‘Why did you start it?’
When told the pace of the serve clock is intentionally quicker at the Grand Slam, Djokovic was, understandably, perplexed.
‘You do it here different? Why? There is no explanation? Thanks for letting us know,’ he chuntered.
He carried his grievance into his post-match press conference and admitted he is ‘worried’ by the lack of communication for players.
‘Yes, that’s the problem that I have. I was not aware of it,’ said Djokovic. ‘No one really brought it to my attention. The lack of communication is something that worries me once again.
‘I mean, that’s something that really upset me. I don’t mind if someone communicates and maybe asks the opinion of us players because we’re the ones who are supposed to play. But it’s going to greatly affect the match.
‘We’ve played in the certain tempo, so to say, got used to it during the Western & Southern tournament, which just ended two days ago.
‘Two days later we have a different rule that was just not communicated to us. That’s something that I found just not acceptable, not fair. But I guess I have to deal with it, and that’s it.
‘I just think there should be a better job done in communication with players prior to changing things like this.’
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