Novak Djokovic escapes disqualification after ball kid scare at Australian Open 2026: WATCH
(Courtesy : @AustralianOpen/Twitter)
Djokovic nearly struck a ball kid, which would have caused immediate disqualification.
Novak Djokovic narrowly escaped disqualification during his third-round match at the Australian Open 2026 against Botic van de Zandschulp, in a tense moment that echoed his infamous 2020 US Open default.
The incident unfolded in the second set, with Djokovic leading 4-2. After van de Zandschulp hit a shot long, the 38-year-old Serb, visibly frustrated, aggressively struck the ball sideways in anger. The shot rocketed dangerously close to a ball kid crouched near the net post, passing just inches over her head.
Commentators on Nine described it as “dangerous,” with Jim Courier noting it flew “right over the top of her head” at high speed, while others called it “too close for comfort” and potentially grounds for a default.
Chair umpire John Blom gave Djokovic a stern look but issued no code violation or penalty, allowing play to continue. Djokovic immediately raised his hand in apology and turned away, showing quick remorse.
Also Read: Novak Djokovic joins Roger Federer in elite list with opening round win at Australian Open 2026
The close call revived memories of the 2020 US Open, where Djokovic was disqualified after unintentionally hitting a lineswoman in the throat with a frustrated backward shot, forcing her to clutch her neck in distress.
That incident led to his removal from the tournament despite his immediate aid and subsequent public apology.
Djokovic apologised for the incident, admitted he was lucky.
In his post-match press conference, Djokovic addressed the scare candidly. “Yeah, I apologised for that. That was not necessary and in the heat of the moment. Yeah, I was lucky there, and I’m sorry for causing any distress to the ball kid or anybody,” he said.
He acknowledged the parallels to past errors but emphasized focusing on the present, noting he felt strong physically despite a brief medical timeout for a foot blister after slipping in the third set.
“I try honestly not thinking about managing the energy on the court in terms of, you know, being economic or saving something for the later rounds, because it’s just I don’t feel that’s the right mindset… I think it’s important to get the most out of yourself on the given day to win against the opponent on that day.”
Djokovic ultimately prevailed 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4) in a straight-sets victory, marking his 400th Grand Slam match win and advancing to the fourth round without dropping a set.
He celebrated with his signature ear-cupping and racquet violin mime, though the match featured crowd frustrations and umpire interventions to quiet spectators.
Djokovic will next directly play the quarter-finals, after his fourth round opponent Jakub Mensik withdrew due to injury. He will meet the winner of Taylor Fritz vs Lorenzo Musetti in the final eight.
What happened during Novak Djokovic’s match at the Australian Open 2026?
Novak Djokovic narrowly avoided disqualification after hitting a ball in frustration that passed dangerously close to a ball kid during his third-round match.
When did the incident occur?
The incident happened in the second set when Djokovic was leading 4-2 against Botic van de Zandschulp.
Why was Novak Djokovic at risk of being disqualified?
Striking a ball aggressively in anger that endangers officials or ball kids can lead to immediate default under tennis rules.
Did Novak Djokovic receive any penalty for the incident?
No. Chair umpire John Blom issued no code violation or penalty, allowing the match to continue.
How did Novak Djokovic react after the incident?
Djokovic immediately raised his hand in apology and later expressed remorse in his post-match press conference.
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Aniruddh Seshadri Iyer is a passionate sports journalist at Khel Now, specializing in tennis and Olympic sports. An engineer by training, he found his storytelling passion through iconic Grand Slam and Olympic moments. Known for sharp analysis and insightful coverage, he draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s resilience. Outside journalism, he enjoys reading, traveling, and playing the guitar.