Australian tennis fans were condemned worldwide after nasty scenes hurt Novak Djokovic’s record ninth title triumph on Sunday night.
There were shocking scenes in the post-game presentation when Tennis Australia President Jayne Hrdlicka was booed after mentioning the launch of vaccines worldwide.
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Hrdlicka was speaking to the crowd about the difficulties and struggles that Australians faced during the coronavirus pandemic.
“It was a time of great losses and extraordinary sacrifices for everyone,” she said.
“With vaccination underway, launched in many countries around the world, it is now a time of optimism and hope for the future.”
However, Hrdlicka’s feeling was lost by some in the crowd at Rod Laver Arena, who booed her relentlessly.
More boos echoed through the arena when she thanked Premier Daniel Andrews and the Victorian government.
“There are many other people to be thankful for that has allowed this great night to happen in the past few weeks,” Hrdlicka continued.
“The top of the list is a Victorian government, without you we couldn’t have done that.”
Hrdlicka was repeatedly interrupted by boos and mockery, with TA’s chair eventually stopping and saying, “When you’re done …”
“You are a very opinionated group of people, but whether you are at home or here tonight, we are very grateful that you are here. We hope to see you next year, “she said.
World reacts to ‘disgusting’ scenes at Australian Open
While fans watching in Australia were horrified by what they witnessed, the horrific scenes also caught the attention of the world media.
Giovanni Torre do UK Telegraph he seemed not to believe as he wrote: “Fans at the Australian Open men’s tennis tournament final booed a senior tennis official on Sunday after she gave a speech that praised the implementation of the Covid-19 vaccination program. “
While Martin Parry’s Agence-France Presse He wrote: “Djokovic’s trophy presentation came after Tennis Australia President Jayne Hrdlicka was booed for mentioning Covid’s vaccine and the Victorian government.
“The unusual scenes took place at the end of a tournament that was delayed three weeks because of the coronavirus and had to stop fans for five days when state officials ordered an instant block.”
George Bellshaw’s The metro was among a handful of international journalists clashing with Twitter.
“That was a really uncomfortable speech. A lot of boos at the mention of coronavirus vaccinations being launched. Bonkers,” he tweeted.
That was a really uncomfortable speech. Many boos with the mention of coronavirus vaccinations being launched. Bonkers.
– George Bellshaw (@BellshawGeorge) February 21, 2021
And so the 2021 Australian Open ends, with the crowd booing vaccines while Djokovic raised the trophy.
It was a strange five weeks in Australia, tennis.#AusOpen
– Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) February 21, 2021
In fact, I can’t believe what I just witnessed. Final Australian Open crowd boo Covid vaccine. #AusOpen
– James Gray (@jamesgraysport) February 21, 2021
Fans from around the world also flocked to social media to criticize the ‘disgusting’ scenes.
@AustralianOpen how disgusting and ungrateful the Australian public has been this year. No idea or clue about your privilege
– Scottish John 🇿🇦 (@Ianntn) February 21, 2021
The crowd was shameful … worse than I have ever seen. Screaming during the rallies, booing twice during the trophy ceremony. Even Medvedev had to tell them to shut up at some point.
– Dave Jeffreys (@ DaveJeffreys1) February 21, 2021
This crowd is ridiculous. Last night was not disrespectful like these clowns #ausopen
– Sasha Goundar (@SashaGoundar) February 21, 2021
Novak Djokovic wins ninth Australian Open title
Attacking your detractors and attacking skeptics, Djokovic says his ninth Australian Open triumph was among the most challenging of his Grand Slam career.
Djokovic defeated Daniil Medvedev 7-5, 6-2 and 6-2 in the Sunday evening final, before targeting critics.
The Serbian was beaten before the tournament for detailing a list of so-called quarantine demands for the 72 players holed up in a tight confinement, then accused of exaggerating an abdominal injury during his five-set victory in the third round over Taylor Fritz.
“Emotionally (this) was one of the toughest tournaments I have had, to be honest, with quarantine and a lot of things going on in the media,” Nine said to world number one.
“The letter I wrote, the ideas and recommendations I received from the players were misinterpreted as my request and list of requirements.
“So, the next thing you know in a few days I am persona non grata in this country.
“I got hurt in the third round. It was a roller coaster, if I can put it in one word. I think it makes it even sweeter for me.”
with AAP
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