Novak Djokovic dropped the first two sets of the U.S. Open final, and the frustration got to him. Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Novak Djokovic smashes racket, nearly swats ball

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated 9/12/21

Novak Djokovic was having a rough time against Daniil Medvedev in the finals of the U.S. Open on Sunday, and he let his emotions get the best of him.

Djokovic blew a break-point opportunity in the second set after already being down a set. Djokovic was not happy with himself and nearly swatted a ball in a moment of frustration. He held back though.

He wanted to. @DjokerNole | #USOpen pic.twitter.com/ki0vz5Qw34

— Live Tennis (@livetennis) September 12, 2021

But Djokovic didn’t hold back a few minutes later when he smashed his racket:

Don’t try this at home. @DjokerNole | #USOpen pic.twitter.com/2lwjlyzUV0

— Live Tennis (@livetennis) September 12, 2021

This is nothing new for the 34-year-old. Despite being a mentally tough player overall, Djokovic loses his temper at times, and his tantrums are one of his downfalls. He threw his racket during an Olympics loss this summer. He was also disqualified from the U.S. Open last year for hitting a lines judge.

The on-court tantrums reflect poorly upon Djokovic and cost him in his matches.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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