Australian Open Commentator Called Out for 'Disgraceful' Novak Djokovic Comment

A commentator at the Australian Open has been criticised on social media after a comment made about Novak Djokovic.

On Monday night, Djokovic began his quest for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title as he kicked off his Australian Open journey.

The Serbian was taking on Spaniard Pedro Martinez, who reached the semi-final of the One Point Slam before being beaten by amateur Jordan Smith.

Inside the Rod Laver Arena, Djokovic was a class above as he sailed through to the second round by winning 6-3, 6-2, 6-2.

Looking ahead, Djokovic will take on Italian Francesco Maestrelli in the second round after he came through a five-set thriller against Terence Atmane, winning 6-4, 3-6, 6-7 (4-7), 6-1, 6-1.

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During the match between Djokovic and Martinez, the commentator was heavily criticised for a comment made about the Serbian great.

As per the Daily Mail, former Australian Open semi-finalist Wally Masur joked that Martinez would need a serious injury to happen to Djokovic in order to have a chance of winning.

Masur was heard saying: "I think that's Pedro's biggest chance if Novak just tears an adductor on one of those slides. It might be just what he needs."

Although it was a light-hearted joke, Masur received heavy criticism on social media.

One fan said: "You can root against him but you don't wish bodily harm on anybody!"

Another tweeted: "Is Wally Masur the best @wwos can do? Many better #tennis commentators around."

A third fan added: "Seriously, what is wrong with these people. This Grand Slam needs a new host, they are disgraceful."

After the match, Masur was interviewing Djokovic on court and a video of him celebrating with his top off after winning the title in 2012 was shown on the big screen. At the time, Djokovic was 24 years old.

Masur asked: "Novak, you said you're taking care of your mind and your body, you've certainly taken care of your body. That's pretty impressive. What's that, like, one per cent body fat?"

The Serbian replied: "I wish I could bring back that body, to be honest. Not for the beach, not for the looks, but for the functionality on the court, I think it served me well.

"I mean, I'm happy with my body so far, although things are different 15 years later."