Miami Open boss claps back after Novak Djokovic fans slam controversial graphic

Djokovic withdraws from Miami Open after shoulder injury, sparking social media backlash

The Miami Open is about to get underway following the Indian Wells Open, but it’s already dealing with a major setback.

Novak Djokovic has pulled out of the tournament because of a shoulder injury. The decision came after his run at Indian Wells, the first part of the Sunshine Double.

Djokovic reached the fourth round in singles before losing to Jack Draper in three sets. He also took part in doubles at Indian Wells, teaming up with Stefanos Tsitsipas.

His withdrawal led to some controversy on social media, with tournament director James Blake facing questions about how the situation was handled.

James Blake defends Miami Open graphic after fan criticism

The Miami Open’s official X account shared a graphic showing the tournament’s past seven champions, which included Jakub Mensik, Jannik Sinner, Daniil Medvedev, Carlos Alcaraz, Hubert Hurkacz, Roger Federer and John Isner.

But a tennis fan reacted to the post by saying: “This is astonishing. The record-breaking 6x @MiamiOpen champion @DjokerNole has been omitted from this wall of champions post.

“This is blatant propaganda @JRBlake, do better please.”

Blake responded directly: “It’s the last seven years of champions in order. Nobody was omitted.”

When was Novak Djokovic’s last Miami Open win?

Djokovic’s most recent title at the Miami Open came in 2016, capping off a run of three straight wins at the event.

He also lifted the trophy in 2014 and 2015, and then beat Kei Nishikori in the 2016 final to secure the Sunshine Double for a record fourth time.

He didn’t lose a set all tournament and only played one tiebreak.

Since then, he’s only entered the Miami Open three times. His most recent showing was a runner-up finish, with his last appearance coming in 2023, when he lost to Jakub Mensik in straight sets.

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