Novak Djokovic branded 'most unlikeable player ever' after crowd incident at Australian Open

Novak Djokovic has been branded the "most unlikeable player ever" following his antics in his Australian Open fourth round win over Adrian Mannarino.

The Serbian cruised into the quarter-finals following a 6-0, 6-0, 6-3 but he caused a stir for one act during the contest.

Mannarino finally won a game in the third set and fans in the Rod Laver Arena erupted in applause.

Djokovic was called for a time violation on his serve but didn't like the noise from the crowd.

He proceeded to protest to the umpire and received loud jeers from the fans in attendance.

In response to that, Djokovic decided to take on the role of pantomime villain and did a conducting gesture while the crowd booed.

You either hate Novak Djokovic for stunts like this or you love him for it and I do genuinely think both opinions are entirely valid.pic.twitter.com/qGWMaicFOy

— Scott Barclay (@BarclayCard18) January 21, 2024

But while some recognised the unrivalled showmanship and entertainment value Djokovic was bringing to the table, plenty didn't like what they saw from the 24-time Grand Slam winner.

One fan said: “The most unlikeable player of all time and it’s not even close."

A second stated: "There is no hate or love. He’s just cringe and he should be ignored. I mean look at the score … he’s looking for unnecessary dramas and attention.”

A third opined: "He's just classless. But unbelievable tennis player. You can be both at the same time."

Another user fumed: "He’s become completely unwatchable. He’s up 6-0, 6-0, 1-0 and is taunting the crowd and b***hing to the umpire just because the crowd is cheering on the guy who finally won a game. Meantime he constantly has a chip on his shoulder because he’s not as beloved as Federer & Nadal."

A fifth said: I’m in the hate squad. I wish he’d just get over it already and stop wasting energy."

Djokovic is back in action on Tuesday, taking on American and No.12 ranked player Taylor Fritz.