UFC veteran rallies support for Novak Djokovic after dramatic BBC interview walkout: "A man who has courage and integrity"
Former UFC fighter expressed his support for tennis icon Novak Djokovic after the grand slammer walked out of the BBC interview.
Djokovic stormed out of the interview after being repeatedly asked about his reaction to the booing he received during his Round of 16 game against Holger Rune in the ongoing Wimbledon tournament. This gesture by the champion was embraced by Jake Shields who responded in support.
When asked by the interviewer about his reaction to the disrespect hurled at him, 'The Joker' admitted that most spectators were respectful, but the few who crossed the line had to be dealt with:
"Look as I said in the post-match interview, I thanked the people. Most people were respectful and I thank them and I know that all day watching tennis is not easy. I was thankful, you know, I don’t take it for granted. Obviously they’re a big part of the game I still play, you know, the crowd and people who appreciate the tennis players and what we do and the efforts we put in, and we appreciate them.
"Paying tickets and coming to us and supporting tennis and this beautiful tournament and I always try to acknowledge that but then you know when I feel like the crowd is stepping over the line, I react and I don’t regret my words or actions in the court and supporting."
When the interviewer didn't seem to move on to other topics, the 24-time grand slam winner grew impatient and voiced his displeasure:
"Do you have any questions other than the crowd? You know, you focused only on that. Any questions about the match or is there nothing else? I mean this is the third question on the crowd already."
After briefly commenting on his upcoming opponent in the quarter-finals, Djokovic couldn't wait another moment as he was already on his feet before the interviewer could finish his formalities.
Shields took a liking to Djokovic's no-nonsense manner when he showered the veteran tennis star with praise on X:
"This is a man who has courage and integrity Unfortunately, most men are cowards and so as they are told."
Jake Shields supported Novak Djokovic when he opposed vaccines during COVID-19
This is not the first time Jake Shields has come in support for the tennis legend. Previously, the Serbian was disallowed from the 2022 Australian Open due to failing vaccine requirements.
Later, Djokovic commented that he would rather miss tournaments than take the vaccine shot. The bluntness impressed Shields who immediately lauded 'Djoker' and said:
"You're doing the honorable thing."