Emma Raducanu, the young British tennis sensation who secured her victory at the 2021 US Open, recently shared her thoughts on Novak Djokovic’s playful imitation of Ben Shelton’s celebration during the 2023 US Open semifinal. Djokovic’s impersonation involved mimicking Shelton’s unique phone gesture and replicating a specific set of moves and finish after his triumphant win, sparking a wide range of reactions from tennis enthusiasts.
Opinions on Djokovic’s actions were polarized, with some perceiving it as a sign of disrespect towards his opponent, while others found it amusing and entertaining in the context of the spectacle. Social media served as a platform for tennis players and fans alike to express their views, evident through comments and likes on the official tournament profile. Surprisingly, Emma Raducanu’s response stood out.
Raducanu, who had claimed the US Open title in 2021, opted to share the images of Djokovic’s imitation directly on her Instagram account. This act seemingly indicated her appreciation for the Serbian champion’s conduct. Djokovic and Shelton also addressed the incident humorously during a press conference. Djokovic praised Shelton’s celebration, declaring it as original and admitting that he had borrowed it without prior knowledge. Shelton, on the other hand, emphasized his belief in the freedom of celebration when one wins a game, citing imitation as a form of flattery.
As for Raducanu’s return to the tennis court, her last official match took place at the WTA 500 tournament in Stuttgart in April. Unfortunately, she informed her fans about undergoing minor hand surgery due to a recurring injury in both hands, leading to an extended hiatus of approximately five months. She also disclosed the need for another small operation on her ankle. Raducanu expressed her regret at missing out on the summer events but expressed gratitude to her fans for their unwavering support. She eagerly anticipates her return to the court and reuniting with her dedicated supporters.