Novak Djokovic’s storied tennis career has seen him break plenty of ground, but the star’s career was never stranger than the 2010 US Open.
Djokovic’s US Open career has been eventful, with the 24-time Grand Slam champion winning the event on four occasions.
The star heads into the 2025 event looking to pick up his fifth crown, but he’ll face stiff competition from Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
Djokovic was looking to win his first-ever US Open in 2010, but a crowd fracas nearly derailed his entire tournament.
Novak Djokovic’s match was suspended after a crowd fight at the US Open in 2010
Djokovic faced Philipp Petzschner in the second-round of the 2010 US Open, but the action spilled out off the court and into the stands.
A fight broke out between fans, which meant play between the two tennis stars was briefly halted on Arthur Ashe Stadium.
“Witnesses say the fisticuffs started when a female fan told a young man he should stop using the F-word,” said a report by CBS Sports.
“He challenged her to hit him if she had a problem with his language, and she slapped him in the face. He slapped her back, and another man joined the fray.”
An official report from U.S. Tennis Association spokesman Chris Widmaier said: “It was a hot night in New York. Things happen.”
That match swiftly continued after the parties involved were removed from Arthur Ashe Stadium. Djokovic won 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 against Petzschner.
Novak Djokovic commented on the US Open crowd in 2010
Perhaps with his tongue firmly in his cheek, Djokovic praised the US Open’s crowd ‘energy’ after picking up the win.
During his on-court interview, Djokovic said: “When I come to the Open, there is definitely something different, some memories for me, some good feelings.”
“Just the energy level from the crowd gets my feet moving a little better,” added Djokovic. “I want to go on a good run for them.”
Djokovic reached the final of the 2010 US Open, beating the likes of Roger Federer and Gael Monfils, but lost to Rafael Nadal in four sets.