It was a straight-sets victory for Djokovic, but it surely was what occurred instantly after that risked inflicting worldwide outrage. The 38-year-old wrote a message on the video digicam in Serbian relating to the tensions in Kosovo which learn: “Kosovo is the heart of Serbia. Stop the violence.”
Tensions in Kosovo on the time reached perilous standing with Serbia placing its army on excessive alert in addition to asserting the intention to ship their troops to the border. In order to minimize the stress, previous to the French Open conflict, safety cordons surrounding 4 city halls in Kosovo have been established by NATO peacekeeping troopers.
The choice got here after protests from Serbs, who make up a portion of the Kosovo inhabitants, with ethnic Albanian mayors being elected into authorities positions in elections that the Serbian inhabitants boycotted. Despite Kosovo declaring independence from Serbia in 2008, Belgrade has continued their refusal to recognise Kosovo as an unbiased state.
Serbian media reported Djokovic saying in his post-match press convention: “I am not a politician and I have no intention of getting into political debates. As a Serb, it hurts me a lot what is happening in Kosovo. The least I could do is this, I feel responsible as a public figure and the son of a man who was born in Kosovo.
“I really feel the necessity to present help to all of Serbia. I don’t know what the longer term holds for the Serbian individuals and Kosovo however it is rather needed to point out help. I’m in opposition to wars and any battle, I’ve at all times expressed this in public. I’m very sorry that we’re within the scenario we’re in. Kosovo is our fireside, our stronghold, the largest battle happened there, a very powerful monasteries are positioned there.”
When asked if he had taken into account the negative reaction to his antics, Djokovic said: “Of course I’m conscious that lots of people would disagree, however it’s what it’s. It’s one thing that I stand for. So that is all.” Djokovic is presently aiming for a sixth Indian Wells title however must get previous Kovacevic within the spherical of 32.
