Djokovic comes to Goffin's rescue: "This isn't soccer or basketball".

© AFP

Elio Valotto

le 04/06/2024 à 08h34

2 min to read

Djokovic Goffin Roland Garros

It's one of the subjects that has caused massive reaction since the start of this Roland Garros tournament: the attitude of the public. In addition to spectators expressing themselves during the points, which led Swiatek to ask the public to be more respectful, it was above all the attitude of the fans during the match between Goffin and Mpetshi Perricard that caused a scandal.

As a reminder, during this first-round match, the French fans had apparently crossed the line. Cheering on the French player with great fervor, some people had also sought to destabilize his opponent.

Very upset after his victory (4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-7, 6-3), Goffin, usually very discreet, had denounced the attitude of the public, explaining that he had been constantly insulted and had even seen someone spit his chewing gum at him. The Belgian's alarmist comments, explaining that there was no place where the public was more disrespectful than in France, had caused quite a stir.

Questioned on the subject, Djokovic, who is used to dealing with a hostile public, was keen to come to his colleague's support: "They are very passionate fans. Sometimes, they're not easy. I've experienced love stories with the fans here, but also difficult matches. This isn't soccer or basketball, but at the same time we need a good atmosphere. There's a fine line when you start to go too far. I can understand why a player like Goffin reacted the other day. I'm all for a player speaking out against people who disrespect him."