Novak Djokovic is going for his 24th Grand Slam title on Sunday. He defeated local hero Ben Shelton in the semi-finals – and imitated his cheer.
Novak Djokovic has defended the imitation cheer after his semi-final win over young American star Ben Shelton at the US Open. “I just love Ben’s jubilation,” the 36-year-old Serb said after his 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) victory at the Grand Slam tournament in New York. “I thought he was very original and I copied him. I stole his cheer. “
After converting match point, Djokovic imitated Shelton’s typical cheer with which he celebrates his victories. He held his right hand to his ear with his thumb and little finger spread and then hung up the imaginary phone. US media such as the broadcaster ESPN interpreted the gesture as Djokovic wanting to mock his opponent. After an intense final phase of the match, Shelton shook hands with his victorious rival with a petrified expression.
He didn’t see the gesture until later, the 19-year-old American told the press conference. “I don’t like it when I’m on social media and I see people telling me how I can cheer or not cheer,” Shelton said. “If you win the match, you deserve whatever you want. When I was a kid, I learned that imitation is the most honest form of flattery. “
