The Australian Open men’s final was interrupted by a protesters yelling from the stands of Rod Laver Arena on Sunday evening.
The Australian Open men’s final between Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev was interrupted by protesters yelling from the stands of Rod Laver Arena on Sunday evening.
The second set was stopped mid-point with Medvedev up 30-15 on serve at 2-1 as spectators started yelling as part of a protest, forcing the umpire to call let and have the point replayed.
Djokovic was visibly upset by the ordeal, but the demonstrators were quickly ejected from the venue by security.
Images showed one of the protesters donned a shirt which read “end systemic racism” on the back.
LIVE BLOG: Australian Open men’s final
According to reports, the protesters were yelling, “Free the refugees”, and appeared to resist officials as they were escorted from Rod Laver Arena.
After winning the subsequent point, Djokovic put an index finger to his lip, shushing the Melbourne crowd.
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The brief stoppage seemingly did not halt the Sebrian’s momentum, racing to a 7-5 6-2 lead.
Earlier in the tournament, a spectator was ejected from Rod Laver Arena after repeatedly taunting Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal during his second round match.
More to come …
