After defeating American Andy Roddick at the US Open, Novak Djokovic was booed loudly by the crowd in attendance.
The incident took place during an interview at center court. Djokovic made reference to comments made by Roddick earlier in the week. Roddick had joked about Djokovic's apparent propensity for injuries and time outs during play in the tournament. Djokovic, in response to those statements remarked, "You know, Andy was saying I have 16 injuries in the last match. Obviously, I don't right?"
The crowd reacted with boos.
USA network reporter Michael Barkann tried to downplay the crowd's displeasure, but the boos intensified when Djokovic responded to the crowd by saying, "They're already against me because they think I'm faking everything, so it's all right."
Novak Djokovic later apologized for his comments. He faces Roger Federer in the semi-finals.ESPN.com: Djokovic beats Roddick on court, trashes him off it
Novak Djokovic Booed Reactions
"Unfortunately, Andy made a statement. I don't think it was intentional. I don't blame it on him. I did react on the court. Maybe I reacted bad in that moment. I apologize. It was impulsive."—Novak DjokovicESPN.com: Djokovic beats Roddick on court, trashes him off it
"I made maybe a mistake by saying that in front of 20,000 people in his city and his favorite tournament."—Novak DjokovicESPN.com: Djokovic beats Roddick on court, trashes him off it
"He's either quick to call the trainer, or he's the most courageous guy of all time. I think it's up for you guys to decide."—Andy RoddickESPN.com: Djokovic beats Roddick on court, trashes him off it
“I figure if you’re going to joke and imitate other people and do the whole deal, then you should take it. Listen, if someone makes fun of me I’m most likely going to laugh."—Andy RoddickYahoo! Sports: Djokovic, angered by Roddick, beats him at Open
“It was completely meant in jest. I should know better. But listen, I joke all the time. I don’t think anyone in their right mind takes me serious.”—Andy RoddickYahoo! Sports: Djokovic, angered by Roddick, beats him at Open