Player Disqualified From U.S. Open, Facing Heavy Fines for ‘Unsportsmanlike Behavior’

The world’s number one tennis player is now facing heavy fines after being disqualified from the U.S. Open. Novak Djokovic became frustrated after missing three set points and hurting his shoulder during a fall. He hit a ball to the side, inadvertently striking a line judge in her neck. When he realized his mistake, he rushed to her aid but the damage was done. He was forced default from the match and give up the $250,000 he won during previous matches. Now he faces additional fines from the U.S. Tennis Association who considered his actions to be dangerous and reckless. Along with losing out on the chance to win the $3 million top prize, he may also be forced to pay additional fines of $10,000 for unsportsmanlike behavior and nearly $20,000 for skipping his post-match press commitments. Djokovic has since apologized on Instagram saying the entire incident left him “really sad and empty.” He added he’s glad the line judge is alright and now intends to work on himself.