Novak Djokovic of Serbia reacts during his third round match against Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara)Novak Djokovic came perilously close to being disqualified during his Australian Open third round match against Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp as he lost his cool and smashed a ball in anger that nearly hit a ball kid. Yet Van de Zandschulp recovered and was fighting his way back into contention when Djokovic lost his composure. Commentator Nick Lester and Henman then suggested Djokovic would not be making eye contact with the chair umpire after a near miss that could have ended what may be his final attempt to win an 11th Australian Open title. Djokovic eventually found a way to get through in straight sets, but he is fortunate to be looking forward to a fourth round match after his latest outburst.

Source: Irish Independent January 24, 2026 14:55 UTC