Novak Djokovic may face U-turn from US crowd as Serb goes up in opposition to Monfils

Novak Djokovic may discover himself pressured again into the function of the villain when he faces Gael Monfils in Cincinnati. The world No 2 obtained a heat welcome from the gang after returning to the US for the primary time in two years. But up in opposition to large fan favorite Monfils, it received’t be a shock if the crown pull in opposition to him this time.

Djokovic is competing in America for the primary time for the reason that 2021 US Open. The unjabbed 36-year-old had been unable to enter the nation because of Covid vaccine journey restrictions however the Cincinnati Open followers have been exhibiting simply how joyful they’re to have him again.

The 23-time Grand Slam champion packed out the stands for his apply matches and received huge cheers even in his doubles match on Tuesday, partnering Nikola Cacic earlier than dropping to Jamie Murray and Michael Venus. Djokovic additionally felt the love in his singles match on Wednesday, advancing when Alejandro Davidovich Fokina retired after going 6-4 down.

But the Serb could have a troublesome time getting the followers on his aspect throughout his round-of-16 match as he faces charismatic Frenchman Monfils, who is continuous his comeback from foot and wrist accidents. Djokovic has regularly confronted hostility from crowds in his profession however had been having fun with a optimistic reception to this point this week.

That may all change when he steps onto the courtroom in opposition to Monfils, nonetheless, as the previous world No 6 at all times finds himself receiving the assist of total stadiums wherever he goes. And it was the identical story on Wednesday when the world No 211 downed Alex de Minaur on Court 4.

While Monfils has at all times been a fan favorite, the appreciation for him has solely grown since he began scuffling with accidents lately and seeing him wholesome on the courtroom turns into one thing of a rarity. There had already been concern in his opening match in opposition to Cameron Norrie when he injured his knee and known as the physio to courtroom.

The 11-time title winner was capable of regroup and upset the thirteenth seed 3-6 6-4 6-3 with the gang pushing him each step of the best way. When Djokovic takes on his previous rival for the nineteenth time on Thursday evening, he may discover himself battling two opponents – Monfils and the spectators.