Novak Djokovic image exposes $150 million Wimbledon roof 'farce'

Novak Djokovic's first round win at Wimbledon has sparked backlash against officials after farcical scenes saw the action on Centre Court delayed by almost 90 minutes on the opening day. The seven-time champion defeated Argentinian debutant Pedro Cachin 6-3 6-3 7-6 (7-4) to set up a second round showdown with Australia's Jordan Thompson.

However, Djokovic's bid for a record-equalling eighth title at the All England Club - and 24th major overall - got off to a bizarre start on a wet opening day. Djokovic claimed the first set before play was delayed for well over an hour because the court was deemed too wet and slippery to play on.

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That's despite Centre Court having a retractable roof that cost around $150 million, with fans left questioning why officials didn't close it sooner. Ground staff were seen using leaf blowers to try and dry the court and Djokovic was even dabbing at the court with a towel in a fruitless attempt to soak up some of the water.

"Yes, blow, blow. Blow the air. We need everybody's help," Djokovic could be heard joking. While the Serb clearly saw the funny side of things, angry viewers took aim at organisers on social media, with many questioning what the point is of having an expensive roof on Centre Court, if they're not going to close it when necessary.

Novak Djokovic hits out at 'frustrating' drama

"The conditions were not great under the roof, it was still slippery. I think it was definitely frustrating for the crowd waiting for us to come out onto the court," Djokovic said about the lengthy delay. "Us players, we both wanted to play, but the conditions were not great. Obviously still slippery under the roof.

"Once the roof was open it was a different story. After five, 10 minutes we were out and about. This is the holy grail, the temple of tennis, so to say.

"This court is something special and every time I come out I normally come out with racquets not with towels. But it was fun to do something different, a little bit of a strange feeling, but hopefully you guys liked it."

Djokovic is seeking a men's record-extending 24th grand slam title that would also draw him level with Aussie great Margaret Court's all-time record. An eighth Wimbledon crown for the Serb would also bring him level with Roger Federer's record mark and equal Bjorn Borg's record of five successive singles crowns at SW19.

Jordan Thompson's ominous task against Novak Djokovic

The last time Djokovic lost on Centre Court was in the 2013 final against Andy Murray, in a brutal reminder of what awaits Thompson in the second round. The Aussie star booked his place in the showdown against Djokovic courtesy of a stirring fightback from two-sets-to-love down against Brandon Nakashima.

Thompson produced a comeback for the ages to beat the American 2-6 2-6 6-4 7-6 (7-4) 6-3. The Aussie is fully aware of the task ahead of him, with Djokovic on a staggering 29-match winning streak at Wimbledon and looking to make it back-to-back titles at the All England Club.

"I know the odds are firmly against me. But yeah, just get out and enjoy it and just have fun. It's not every day you play Novak at Wimbledon," Thompson said. "It could be a dream, or could be a nightmare. I've seen a few guys have nightmares out there against him on centre court, but hopefully that won't be the case for me.

"I played Rafa (Nadal) at the French (Open) on (main court) Philippe Chatrier (losing 2-6 2-6 2-6 in 2022). I said at the end of the match to him, 'it wasn't fun, but it was an honour'. Hopefully, it's a little bit more fun against Novak but I'm well aware that it might not be."

with agencies

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