Novak Djokovic Sounds Off On Serve Clock Rule Changes

Novak Djokovic becomes the latest tennis player to express frustration with rule changes.

Novak Djokovic (SRB) reacts after missing a shot against Radu Albot (MDA)(not pictured) in a men's singles match on day one of the 2024 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Tuesday's tennis highlights took a backseat to drama on the court at the Shanghai Masters. Frances Tiafoe cursed out the umpire over a serve clock rule violation during a critical juncture in his match.

Once again, the serve clock became an issue at the same tournament today. Novak Djokovic had no trouble defeating Roman Safiullin in straight sets: 6-3, 6-2.

However, Djokovic did not hold back in expressing his frustration with the umpire during the match.

Novak Djokovic to the umpire in Shanghai about serve clock rule changes:

“I get it’s not up to you. But the rule change is unbelievable. For four years we had a situation where we can’t get the towel. The ball kids are doing their best but they’re not trained. Without even… pic.twitter.com/elUG88lPNn

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) October 9, 2024

Djokovic said, "I get it's not up to you. But the rule change is unbelievable. For four years, we had a situation where we can't get the towel. The ball kids are doing their best, but they're not trained. Without even notifying any players, they start this new rule. It's incredible, honestly."

Djokovic was not done pleading his case. "I get it. You guys want to speed up the pace of the tennis match. But at the same time, we’ve got to know if we’re starting the season this way. We can’t change it midway in the season."

Cool, calm & collected 🫡@DjokerNole beats Safiullin 6-3 6-3 and advances to his 10th #RolexShanghaiMasters quarter-final pic.twitter.com/Cn1klhefrH

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) October 9, 2024

Fans either love or hate Djokovic. But no one can deny that he is the most straightforward player on the tour. The 37-year-old is nearing the end of his legendary career, and he cares deeply about the sport.

Djokovic faces Jakub Menšík in the quarterfinals of the Shanghai Masters on Thursday. Tennis fans can follow Sports Illustrated's Serve on SI for all the most important news from the sport.

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