'In The Heat Of The Moment...': Novak Djokovic Apologises For Nearly Hitting Ball Kid At AO

Last Updated:January 24, 2026, 20:50 IST

In a moment of madness during Djokovic's win over Botic van de Zandschulp, the icon hit a ball towards a hoarding in frustration, nearly hitting a ball kid.

Novak Djokovic of Serbia reacts after defeating Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands in their third round match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara)

Novak Djokovic triumphed over Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp in their Australian Open match on Saturday, as the 38-year-old set another record on his way to the Round of 16 in the year’s first Grand Slam.

The Serbian legend became the first player to win 400 Grand Slam matches with his 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) victory, extending his own record of most match wins at the Majors.

There was a moment of madness from the icon during the game, however, as he hit a ball towards an advertising hoarding in frustration, nearly hitting a ball kid, for which he quickly apologised.

“I apologize for that. That was not necessary. In the heat of the moment I, yeah, I was lucky there," the Serbian said.

“I’m sorry for causing any distress to the ball kid or anybody," he added.

Roger Federer, with 369 Grand Slam wins, and Serena Williams, with 365 Major victories, are the closest competitors on the list dominated by Djokovic.

Although Van de Zandschulp managed to upset Djokovic in three sets at Indian Wells last year, this time he never seemed capable of causing another surprise.

The fourth seed displayed exceptional tennis in the first set, securing a crucial break in the fourth game after an exhausting 26-point rally. He broke the Dutchman’s serve again at the start of the second set and moved to 4-2, though he faced some struggles and became visibly more irritable.

Djokovic received treatment on his foot during a medical timeout in the third set, seemingly for a blister, as they exchanged breaks, leading the set to a tiebreak where he proved the most resilient. Djokovic has been tied with Margaret Court on 24 major titles since winning the US Open in 2023.

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